This report presents an experimental validation of the use of Bethe hole theory in the numerical modeling of apertures in structures with wires behind the apertures. Three configurations are examined in this study: thin, capped cylinders with the wire located along the cylinder center; apertures in a plane with a wire; and fat, capped cylinders with wire inside. Currently accepted methods that use the Bethe hole theory to model the aperture are used to model numerically the current on the wires. The numerically generated current data are compared with experimental results. This validation is performed for both electrically small and large apertures. 55 figures, 5 tables.

The conceptual design of a commercial LMFBR (Target Plant) and its NSSS capital cost have been developed in support of the United Engineers and Constructors Contract EN-78-C-02-4954 with the Department of Energy. The objective of this work is to provide the Department of Energy/Office of Program Planning and Analysis - Nuclear Energy Programs with periodic updates of technical, capital cost, fuel cycle cost, and operating and maintenance cost information. This effort supports Task 3B of the UE and C's Phase I Energy Economic Data Base (EEDB) Program. Past estimates of LMFBR capital costs have generally predicted that these costs would be higher than those of a comparably sized LWR, primarily due to the more demanding technology associated wih higher temperatures and the large number of engineered systems. The LMFBR, because of its low fuel cycle costs, can tolerate a capital cost premium relative to thermal reactors. The key issues, therefore, are: the allowable LMFBR cost premium, and the steps necessary to reduce the capital cost below the projected allowable cost premium for a safe and reliable plant.