Computational fluid dynamics study on cross flow pressure drop for triangular array rod assemblies with wire

A numerical study on modeling of cross flow pressure drop coefficient for wire-wrapped triangular rod array has been performed. The objective is to clarify and also to extend the current modeling of cross flow pressure drop coefficient employed in subchannel analysis method. This study includes both pure laminar and fully turbulent flow conditions. Firstly, simulations employing pin pitch to diameter ratio (P/D) of 1.21 are carried out, and the results are compared with available experimental data in terms of wire correction parameter. The results for P/D = 1.21 are in good agreement with experimental data. Calculations employing smaller values of P/D, representing tight lattice rod configuration, have also been carried out. Based on the numerical results, new correlations of cross flow pressure drop are proposed. The correlations can be used to evaluate cross flow pressure drop coefficient in subchannel analysis codes.