Numerical study on the melting behavior of annular fuel under accident conditions

The use of annular fuel in nuclear power plants has been developed to improve their efficiency, safety, and economic viability. Therefore, studying the thermal hydraulic issues of annular fuel is crucial. The melting of annular fuel under accident conditions is equally important. This study uses a novel numerical technique called the Half Boundary Method (HBM) to tackle this issue. With new variables introduced, this method avoids the need for additional continuity equations at the boundary when solving multi-layer composite problems. First, the HBM is used to model a multi-layer composite ring and solve its transient thermal problems, which are then verified. Next, the temperature distribution of annular fuel under operational conditions is calculated, and the results are compared to validate HBM's accuracy. Based on these findings, simulations are conducted to model the melting phase transitions of annular fuel during Loss of Coolant Accidents (LOCAs) and Reactivity Insertion Accidents (RIAs).