Theory of pump-induced pulsating coolant pressure in pressurized water reactors☆

Abstract The theory of pump-induced pulsating pressure distributions in a PWR coolant annulus is developed. The calculated pressure distribution can then be applied to predict the dynamic responses of the reactor internals. The mathematical analysis is formulated in accordance with the linearized Navier-Stokes' equations by assuming a compressible, inviscid liquid. These equations are combined to form a single equation in terms of the unknown pressure distribution. The boundary conditions are two concentric rigid walls in the radial direction and any combination of closed, open, and piston-spring supported end conditions in the axial direction. The pulsating pump pressure which induces the pressure fluctuation in the annulus is prescribed at a small opening of the outer cylindrical wall (pump inlet of the reactor). An approximate solution is obtained by introducing the concept of time-dependent body force in the governing differential equations. With this conceptual substitution for the actual loading, the time-dependent, mixed boundary value problem can be represented as a forced vibration problem with homogeneous boundary conditions. This problem can then be solved by the method of normal modes. Numerical examples are provided which give the pressure distribution in the axial and circumferential directions of the annulus for various configurations of one and/or several pumps.