Core Design Considerations for a Large Gas Turbine HTGR

Abstract

Advanced high-temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) design concepts for energy production using gas turbine applications depend on cores capable of generating helium coolant outlet temperatures up to 900 C (1652 F). This paper describes a preliminary analysis of a large HTGR [4000 MW (t)] core using a prismatic fuel with coolant gas core outlet temperatures of 850 C (1562 F). This study provides core design considerations in the areas of radial fuel zoning, power distribution, fuel performance, fuel temperatures, and fission product release for a large HTGR core operating under high-temperature conditions. Though the work was performed on a 4000-MW(t) core, all design considerations developed are equally applicable to a 3000-MW(t) core. Potentials for upgrading the core performance and suggested improvements for implementation in future design work are cited.