Effect of Temperature and Reactivity Changes in Operation of the Los Alamos Plutonium Reactor (open access)

Effect of Temperature and Reactivity Changes in Operation of the Los Alamos Plutonium Reactor

The operation of the Fast Reactor is considered in terms of normal equilibrium conditions and normal shut-down. The proposed loading, control rod adjustment and subsequent "floating" operation are discussed. Safety devices and interlocks are described. Temperature and reactivity changes are examined with respect to various system failures, phase changes, and "flashing" of the reactor. Slow changes due to faulty slug cooling are also considered. The calculations were initially based upon 10 kw operation. Performance tests of the mercury system now indicate that 20-kw operation may be feasible.
Date: May 28, 1948
Creator: Hall, David B. & Hall, Jane H.
System: The UNT Digital Library