Optimization and Exergy Analysis of Nuclear Heat Storage and Recovery

Abstract

The APR1400 Nuclear Heat Storage and Recovery (NHS&R) System described here represents the conceptual design and interface of a tertiary cycle with the secondary system of the Korean nuclear reactor plant APR1400. The system is intended to reliably and efficiently store and recover thermal energy from a Nuclear Power Plant (NPP) steam system in order to allow flexible power generation using an economical and scalable design. The research incorporates a comprehensive performance analysis of three interface configurations with comparisons based on the 1st and 2nd Laws of Thermodynamics. The investigated configurations are also ranked based on impact analysis of the NHS&R System on the plant configuration and operation. Input data used in the analysis is based on calibrated thermodynamic models of the system arrangements. Results were used to select the preferred APR1400 NHS&R System design configuration as characterized by: (i) maximum system efficiency, (ii) minimized energy losses, (iii) limited impact on existing plant Systems, Structures, and Components (SSC), and (iv) limited impact on plant operations. Case 3 offers several comparative advantages including: (i) high round trip efficiency, (ii) minimal impact on existing plant and equipment, (iii) high utilization of the heat transport and storage media, and (iv) good system control options.