Better by design: Evolutionary design features in new build reactors and the implications for modelling

摘要

The majority of reactors proposed for new build include evolutionary design features to improve performance and safety incorporating lessons learned from 50+ years of operation. The new designs are likely to be at least generation Ⅲ or Ⅲ+. These designs are aimed at improving the economics, through simplification, standardisation of components, improved reliability, safety, etc. Most importantly, the Gen Ⅲ+ designs put greater influence on inherent safety, passive systems and resilience against severe accidents. The objectives of this paper are to describe the: 1. evolutionary design features of the Gen Ⅲ/Ⅲ+ reactor designs; 2. plant efficiency and core optimisation issues associated with these designs and work carried out by Amec Foster Wheeler with its ANSWERS codes; 3. design improvements associated with the UK new build proposed plants, focusing on the inherent safety features of these designs; and 4. implications for modelling passive safety systems.