2D core calculation based on the method of dynamic homogenization

Abstract

International audienceThree-dimensional core deterministic calculations are typically based on the two-steps approach,where the homogenized cross-sections of an assembly type are pre-calculated for different physicalparameters and then interpolated to the actual state in the reactor. On the other hand, direct transportcalculations, mostly based on the method of characteristics, have recently been applied, showinga prohibitive computational time for routine design purposes, due to current machine capabilities.Because of this, a simplified transport solution, the so called 2D/1D Fusion method [1], has been developedachieving very precise results but remaining still expensive in the context of multiphysics andcore depletion calculations. In the present work, we propose a method of Dynamic Homogenization(DH) as an alternative technique for three-dimensional core calculations which can lie between thetwo approaches, the classical and the direct one, in terms of precision and performance. The aim ofthe present work is to present preliminary analysis and tests of the DH technique for two-dimensionalconfigurations