Application of the FALCON code to PCI induced cladding failure and the effects of missing pellet surface

The results of calculation for the stress-concentration factors caused by MPS, as a function of the angular size of the MPS defect, are in good agreement with previous similar studies, specifically with the one undertaken by the principal FALCON MOD01 code developer - ANATECH Corp. Furthermore, the predicted effects of MPS defect size is compared with the effects related to the power ascension rate, with the power ramp level being kept the same. A reduced power ascension rate is determined, which is capable of 'neutralizing' the detrimental effect on the local stress concentration in the cladding caused by the MPS defect under consideration.