Validation and parametric study of FFRD model in DRACCAR code

Abstract

The recent revision of Emergency Core Cooling System (ECCS) regulations in Korea has necessitated the consideration of Fuel Fragmentation, Relocation, and Dispersal (FFRD) phenomena in nuclear reactor safety analyses. Consequently, the Korea Atomic Energy Research Institute (KAERI) has developed and integrated the FFRD model into the domestically licensed safety analysis code, SPACE. Globally, US NRC’s FRAPTRAN and IRSN’s DRACCAR are available for evaluating FFRD phenomena. The FRAPTRAN code incorporates the FFR model, developed by Quantum Technology, while the fuel dispersal model is currently not included. In contrast, the DRACCAR code functions as an integrated analysis platform capable of modeling multi-dimensional thermal, hydraulic, mechanical, and chemical phenomena during a Loss of Coolant Accident (LOCA). This study conducts a thorough examination of the FFRD model in the DRACCAR code and validates its applicability through analysis using the Halden IFA-650 tests. The results demonstrate satisfactory predictive capabilities. Furthermore, a parametric study of key FFRD model parameters enhances the understanding of the FFRD model in the DRACCAR code. The development of detailed physical models in the FFRD model could significantly enhance the performance of the DRACCAR code, warranting the establishment of a comprehensive framework for these advancements. In the future, code-to-code comparisons between the DRACCAR code and other domestically developed integrated analysis platforms will be conducted to investigate various phenomena in depth.