Testing of the IRT-4M type FA with LEU UO 2 -Al fuel in WWR-CM reactor
Abstract
Now in the WWR-CM reactor (Tashkent) the IRT-3M type Fuel Assemblies (FA) with UO{sub 2}-Al fuel of 36% enrichment are used. Density of uranium in the Fuel Elements (FE) meats - 2.5 g/cm{sup 3}. Thickness of meats - 0.5 mm. The WWR-CM reactor conversion on use of these FA was begun in August, 1998 and was completed in February, 1999. According to the Russian RERTR program in the WWR-CM reactor the lifetime testing of four IRT-4M type FA (two 8-tube and two 6-tube) with LEU (19.7%) UO{sub 2}-Al fuel will be carried out. These FA were fabricated by JSC 'Novosibirsk Chemical Concentrates Plant' (NZHK). Uranium density in the FE meats - 3.0 g/cm{sup 3}. FE cladding material in two FA is aluminum alloy CAB-1, and in two others - alloy AM{gamma}2. Neutronic and thermal-hydraulic calculations in a substantiation of safety of the IRT-4M type FA testing were performed. Results of calculations are presented. The IRT-4M type FA testing will be begun in October, 2000. (author)