Analysis of Possibility of Pressure Tube Cold Pressurization During ECCS Injection for a Small Break LOCA

Abstract

ECCS is designed to keep the reactor fuel temperatures within safe limits. The paper describes an additional criterion for Indian pressurized heavy water reactors (IPHWRs) evolving from the need to avoid a small break loss of cooling accident (LOCA) developing into a more severe accident. During a small break loss of coolant accident (LOCA) in PHWRs, the hydro-accumulators ride on the system and inject emergency coolant. The atmospheric steam discharge valves (ASDVs) open and cool the system due to energy discharge. In addition, the pressure control system tends to maintain the pressure. Depending on the system design, this could lead to cold pressurization of the system. This paper examines this issue.