Influence evaluation of loading conditions during pressurized thermal shock transients based on thermal-hydraulics and structural analyses

Katsuyama, Jinya  ; Uno, Shumpei*; Watanabe, Tadashi*; Li, Y. 

For the structural integrity assessments on reactor pressure vessels (RPVs) under pressurized thermal shock (PTS) events, thermal hydraulic (TH) behavior of coolant water is one of the most important influence factors. Configuration of plant equipment and their dimensions, and operator action have large influences on TH behavior. In this study, to investigate the influence of operator action on TH behavior during a PTS event, we developed an analysis model for a typical Japanese plant, and performed TH and structural analyses. Two different operator action times were assumed based on the Japanese and US' rules. From the analysis results, it was clarified that differences in operator action times have a significant effect on TH behavior and loading conditions, that is, following the Japanese rule may lead to lower stresses compared to that when following the US rule because earlier operator action caused lower pressure in the RPV.