Analysis of Effects of Buoyancy Force on Steam Condensation With Non-Condensable Gases in a Rectangular Channel

Abstract

With the development of science and technology, some important passive features have been used in nuclear reactors, one of which is passive containment cooling system (PCCS). In the system, steam condensation plays an important role in removing heat from the containment atmosphere during a postulated accident. It has been found that during most time of an accident, the gas regime in the containment will be under natural and mixed convection. Advanced pressurized water reactor (CAP1400), designed by State Nuclear Power Technology Corporation (SNPTC) in China, is one of Chinese national science and technology projects. Since the PCCS has been applied in CAP1400, the study of condensation with non-condensable gases under natural and mixed convection becomes necessary. To have a deeper understanding on the phenomenon of condensation with non-condensable gases under natural and mixed convection, an experiment facility was set up by State Nuclear Power Technology Research & Development Centre (SNPTRD). The test section of the facility is a rectangular channel with one of the walls acting as a condensing plate. The effects of buoyancy force on steam condensation with non-condensable gases are investigated. Also, a CFD model is set up to simulate the process.