Power Coefficient in PWRs - Fuel & Coolant Temp. Coeff.

[libertad]

Hi there,
I want to know about power coefficinet in PWRs and its relation to fuel and coolant temperature coefficients.
Is power coefficient usual summation of fuel and coolant temperature coefficient?

Thanks

 

[gmax137]

http://www.nrc.gov/reading-rm/basic-ref/glossary/power-coefficient-of-reactivity.html

 

[raining Pete]

for your question! The power coefficient in pressurized water reactors (PWRs) is a measure of how the reactor's power output changes in response to changes in the reactor's conditions, such as fuel and coolant temperature. It is not a simple sum of the fuel and coolant temperature coefficients, but rather a combination of these factors.

The fuel temperature coefficient is a measure of how the reactor's power output changes in response to changes in the temperature of the fuel. This coefficient is typically negative, meaning that as the fuel temperature increases, the reactor's power output decreases.

The coolant temperature coefficient, on the other hand, is a measure of how the reactor's power output changes in response to changes in the temperature of the coolant. This coefficient is typically positive, meaning that as the coolant temperature increases, the reactor's power output also increases.

The power coefficient takes into account both of these factors, as well as other factors such as changes in reactor geometry and neutron absorption. It is typically expressed in units of percent per degree Celsius, and a negative power coefficient is desirable for reactor stability.

I hope this helps to clarify the relationship between power coefficient, fuel temperature coefficient, and coolant temperature coefficient in PWRs. Let me know if you have any other questions!