RELAP5 Code Study of ROSA/LSTF Experiment on a PWR Station Blackout (TMLB’) Transient

RELAP5 code post-test analysis was performed on one of abnormal transient tests conducted with the ROSA/LSTF simulating a PWR station blackout (SBO) transient with the TMLB’ scenario in 1995. The RELAP5 code predicted well the overall trend of the major phenomena observed in the LSTF test, and indicated remaining problems in the predictions of reverse flow U-tubes in steam generator (SG) during long-term single-phase liquid natural circulation. Sensitivity analyses were done further to clarify effectiveness of depressurization of and coolant injection into SG secondary-side as accident management measures to maintain core cooling, based on the LSTF post-test analysis. SG secondary-side depressurization was initiated by fully opening the safety valve in one of two SGs with the incipience of core uncovery. Coolant injection was done into the secondary-side of the same SG at low pressures considering availability of fire engines. The SG depressurization with the coolant injection was found to well contribute to maintain core cooling by the actuation of accumulator system during a PWR SBO (TMLB’) transient.