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Basic Principles of Operation of nuclear power plants

Basic Principles of Operation of nuclear power plants. Special Topic 2014 Exam Craft mock 2014. Define the term Nuclear Fusion:.

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Basic Principles of Operation of nuclear power plants

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  1. Basic Principles of Operation of nuclear power plants Special Topic 2014 Exam Craft mock 2014

  2. Define the term Nuclear Fusion: • It is the process the nucleus of an atom (uranium or plutonium) is bombarded with neutrons. This splits the nucleus (fission) realising large amounts of energy in the form of heat.

  3. Explain, with the aid of the diagram how nuclear fission occurs.

  4. Nuclear Fission • The nucleus of Uranium 235 is bombarded with neutrons. • It absorbs one neutron causing it’s mass to change, it is now U236. • U236 is highly unstable and atom splits realising thermal energy. • Krypton & Barium are formed, during this 3 further neutrons are released. • These 3 neutrons cause a further 3 reactions and so on.

  5. Reactor • A device to initiate and control a sustained nuclear reaction. • Heat from nuclear fission is passed to a working fluid. (water or gas)

  6. Steam Generator • Heat exchangers to convert water into steam. • Used in PWR (pressurised water reactors) • Water in the primary loop is heated by the reaction and this heats the water in the secondary loop and turns it into steam. • The water is then condensed and reused

  7. Stem Turbine • A device that converts the thermal energy from the steam and turns it into mechanical energy. • This mechanical energy can be used to turn the mechanical generator.

  8. Condenser • A device used to turn the steam back to water so it can be resent to the steam generator.

  9. Containment Building • This is a building that creates an airtight seal from the atmosphere outside • Must be strong enough to withstand the impact of a fully loaded passenger airliner.

  10. Moderator • A material that slows down or speeds up neutrons. • It can then control the rate of fission. • Water is often used as a moderator. Eg the Fukushima plant, the water has a blue glow called the “Cherenkov” effect

  11. Control Rods • Neutron absorbing material (graphite) • Lowering the rods into the reactor absorbs neutrons and can stop fission. • Moving the rods up and down can increase or decrease the fission. Like a car accelerator.

  12. Advantages over BWR’s & PWR’s Disadvantages compared to BWR’s & PWR’s • High Temperature Reactor • Higher Thermal efficiency • Low power density • Doesn’t need containment to meet safety targets. • Complex to build • Refuelling plant is complex • UK has to solve it’s own technical issues Compared to Advanced Gas Reactors

  13. Safety • On site fire fighting teams • On site medical teams • On site armed police • Comprehensive fire procedures • EPA monitor local area and produce • Gravity activated control rods- shut down if power goes. • Reinforced concrete & steel containment

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