SCDAP/RELAP5/MOD 3.3 Code Manual:Modeling of Reactor Core and Vessel Behavior During Severe Accidents (NUREG/CR-6150, Volume 2, Revision 2)

On this page:

• Publication Information
• Abstract

Download complete document

• NUREG/CR-6150, Volume 2, Revision 2 (PDF 15.01 MB)

Publication Information

Manuscript Completed: August 2000
Date Published: January 2001

Prepared by:
L. J. Siefken, E. W. Coryell, E. A. Harvego,
J. K. Hohorst

Idaho National Engineering and Environmental Laboratory
P.O. Box 1625
Idaho Falls, ID 83415-3129

S. A. Arndt, NRC Project Manager

Prepared for:
Division of Systems Technology
Office of Nuclear Regulatory Research
U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
Washington, DC 20555-0001

NRC Job Code W6095

Availability Notice

Abstract

The SCDAP/RELAP5 code has been developed for best-estimate transient simulation of light water reactor coolant systems during a severe accident. The code models the coupled behavior of the reactor coolant system and reactor core during severe accidents as well as large and small break loss-of-coolant accidents, operational transients such as anticipated transient without SCRAM, loss of offsite power, loss of feedwater, and loss of flow. The coolant system behavior is calculated using a two-phase model allowing for unequal temperatures and velocities of the two phases of the fluid, and the flow of fluid through porous debris and around blockages caused by reactor core damage. The reactor core behavior is calculated using models for the ballooning and oxidation of fuel rods, the meltdown of fuel rods and control rods, fission product release, and debris formation. The code also calculates the heatup and structural damage of the lower head of the reactor vessel resulting from the slumping of reactor core material. A generic modeling approach is used that permits as much of a particular system to be modeled as necessary. Control system and secondary system components are included to permit modeling of plant controls, turbines, condensers, and secondary feedwater conditioning systems.

This volume contains detailed descriptions of the severe accident models and correlations. It provides the user with the underlying assumptions and simplifications used to generate and implement the basic equations into the code, so an intelligent assessment of the applicability and accuracy of the resulting calculation can be made.