Analysis of plugging meter measurement techniques for oxygen concentration determination in liquid sodium

摘要: Next-generation nuclear power plays a large role in the world’s efforts to meet critical climate goals. The sodium fast reactor concept forms the basis for TerraPower’s recently launched NatriumTM Reactor Plant. Design of the new facility requires stringent stress analysis of all reactor parts, including confirming results for crucial components with experimentation. These experiments—along with general reactor operation—must accurately measure oxygen concentration in the sodium coolant due to related corrosion mechanisms. The current Reactor Development and Technology standard plugging meter methodology was developed in the 1970s, heavily relying on the operator’s visual interpretation of data. This subjectivity prompted the development of a new objective measurement method, called the UW Minimum Method, and a proposed modification to the standard instrument geometry, which involved the …