The use of a novel gradient heat flux sensor for characterization of reflux condensation

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel gradient heat flux sensor made of anisotropic material, capable of accurately measuring heat flux in confined and harsh environments, specifically applied to analyze reflux condensation in nuclear reactor steam generators.

Contribution

The paper presents a new gradient heat flux sensor with unique properties, enabling detailed heat flux characterization in challenging conditions like nuclear reactor tubes.

Findings

Enhanced heat flux measurement accuracy during reflux condensation

Sensor robustness suitable for harsh environments

Potential for improved safety analysis in nuclear reactors

Abstract

In this paper we present the developments in heat flux measurements using gradient heat flux sensors (GHFS). The GHFS is a sensor made of artificially created material with anisotropic thermo-electrical properties. Its properties including small size, robustness and low response time make it a valuable addition for characterizing heat flux in space-limited geometries as well as harsh environmental conditions. This makes it ideal for investigation of reflux condensation in the steam generator tubes of a pressurized water reactor. The reflux condenser mode of operation during accident as well as maintenance conditions can provide a significant passive cooling, removing the residual decay heat from the reactor core, thus preventing or at least delaying potential core uncovery. With this novel implementation of GHFS deeper characterization of heat flux during reflux condensation was achieved.