Transport model based on three-dimensional cross-section generation for TRIGA core analysis

Three-dimensional (3-D) transport model for the Pennsylvania State University Breazeale Reactor (PSBR) core analysis has been developed based on the discrete ordinates (Sn) method. The effective fine- and broad-group structures for the TRIGA cross-section libraries were selected based on CPXSD (Contributon and Point-wise Cross-Section Driven) methodology. The study shows results of the following effective broad-group energy structures - a 12-group structure in 2-D geometry vs. a 26-group structure in 3-D geometry. Different 3-D pin/core configurations were used to verify and validate the selected effective group structures. The results agree with continuous energy cross-section Monte Carlo calculations for eigenvalues and normalized pin-power distributions, which are used as a reference in this research.