Thermohydraulic aspects of the interpretation of the SCARABEE fuel failure experiments

Abstract Thermohydraulic aspects of the analysis of the SCARABEE fuel failure experiments carried out in Cadarache, France 1971–1974 are discussed. The work was performed jointly by teams from CEA, KfK and UKAEA. The analysis has led to a common understanding of the main physical phenomena initiated by inlet blockage formation or pump failure. Much effort was spent in identifying and quantifying the special features of the experimental rig which influenced the course of the accident sequence so that an appropriate adjustment can be made when interpreting the results in the reactor situation. The limitation on data accuracy imposed by the complexities of an in-pile experiment prevent definitive statements on a number of aspects which could be studied more profitably out-of pile.