REACTOR SYSTEMS FOR SHIP PROPULSION-A COMPARISON

A comparison study of four reactor types PWR, BWR, GCR, and OMR for the propulsion of merchant ships was carried out on the basis of a 30,000 HP installation. Efficiency, control, cooling problems, build-up of radioactivity and fuel changing of the different systems were compared with reference to the operation, maintenance, and safety of the reactor. The study led to the conclusion that. for rapid application, the water systems are indicated but that, looking further ahead, the optimum solution lay in a gas-cooled reactor with gas turbines. (auth)