Experimental Investigations to Simulate the Thermal Environment and Fuel Region in Nuclear Light Bulb Reactors using an R-F Radiant Energy Source

摘要

Experiments were continued to develop test configurations and technology necessary to simulate the thermal environment and fuel region in nuclear light bulb reactors. The test program was conducted using the UARL 1.2-megw r-f induction heater which has 7.8-cm-ID work coils and operates at approximately 5.5 MHz. Several types of models were installed inside the coils to achieve different program objectives. All models were basically cylindrical vortex chambers with highly cooled fused silica peripheral walls and copper end walls. Argon was used to drive the vortexes. R-F power level, chamber pressure and argon flow rate were adjusted to provide the desired r-f plasma discharge test conditions.