Degradation test using control blade applied for BWRs in Japan

Shibata, Hiroki ; Tokushima, Kazuyuki; Sakamoto, Kan*; Kurata, Masaki 

In this study, control blade degradation test under the conditions of axial temperature gradient and high temperature increase rate in Ar-atmosphere was performed as preliminary test in steam atmosphere to investigate the relocation of control blade melt and interaction with channel box under the conditions. It was found that the molten products redistribute to axial direction and interaction between S.S./BC-melt and Zry-4 progresses significantly in the condition that a few micron oxide layer exists on Zry-4. Moreover, as preliminary test in steam atmosphere, reaction test between the materials of control blade and channel box was carried out to investigate the effect of oxide layer formed on the surface of Zry-4 in steam atmosphere. It was found that in the condition of supplying oxygen continuously, the liquefaction interaction between Zry and S.S./BC-melt is considered to be prevented.