Optimal design of vertical natural circulation steam generator

Steam generator is one of the key equipments in the pressurized water reactor, whose weight and dimension influence weight, volume and arrangement of the nuclear power plant. From the performance point of view, it is necessary to apply optimization techniques on the design of the steam generator. The stability thermal hydraulic mathematical model of the vertical natural circulation steam generator has been established, and the reactor core simplified stability thermal hydraulic analysis codes based on the single tube model have been developed and testified. The sensitivities of some thermal hydraulic and structural parameters have been analyzed, which influence the weight of the steam generator. The optimal design of the steam generator, aiming at the weight minimization while satisfying the structure and performance constraints, has been carried out with the new hybrid particle swarm optimization algorithm. The calculated results show that optimal weight of steam generator is 15.1% less than original on the premise of ensuring the normal operation of the reactor core.

► We establish stability mathematical model of steam generator and reactor core. ► We propose a new particle swarm optimization algorithm. ► The algorithm can overcome premature phenomenon and has a high search precision. ► Optimal weight of steam generator is 15.1% less than original. ► Sensitivity analysis and optimal design provide reference for steam generator design.