A study of spherical tubesheet design for APR1400 and AP1000 steam generators
Year: 2024
Type: article
Abstract: This research investigates the potential of spherical tube sheets as a more efficient alternative to conventional flat tube sheets in APR1400 and AP1000 steam generators. By leveraging the inherent strength of spherical structures, we aim to reduce material consumption, manufacturing costs, and construction time. Finite Element Method simulations were employed to compare the deformation behavior of flat and spherical tube sheets under high-temperature and high-pressure conditions. The analysis identified optimal spherical tube sheet thicknesses that maintained structural integrity while achieving significant reductions in thickness: approximately 20–30 % for APR1400 and 40–50 % for AP1000. Moreover, the spherical design can enhance thermal efficiency by minimizing variations in heat transfer tube lengths, leading to more uniform heat distribution.
Source: Nuclear Engineering and Design
Authors: Seungmin Kim, Namgung Ihn
Institution: Korea Electric Power Corporation (South Korea)
Language: English
Topic: Engineering Applied Research
Subfield: Civil and Structural Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,670
OpenAlex ID: W4404366409