Thermal-Hydraulic analysis and characterization of the HEXACOM facility
Year: 2026
Type: article
Abstract: The design and safety assessment of innovative nuclear systems such as MYRRHA require experimental facilities capable of reproducing the thermal-hydraulic behavior of key components. Among these, the Primary Heat Exchanger (PHX) is essential for effective heat removal under nominal and transient conditions. The HEXACOM facility was therefore conceived as a scaled experimental loop reproducing PHX operation under representative conditions. This paper presents results from an experimental campaign on HEXACOM aimed at characterizing its steady-state and transient performance and providing data for code validation. A detailed RELAP5 system thermal-hydraulic model was developed, including validated standalone models of main components such as valves, the pump, and the PHX. Post-test analysis showed good agreement between experimental and simulated results, confirming the model’s predictive capability. The validated model was then used for pre-test analysis of a new operating configuration, supporting future experimental planning and MYRRHA PHX design assessment.
Source: Annals of Nuclear Energy
Language: English
Subfield: Aerospace Engineering
Field: Engineering
Domain: Physical Sciences
Open Access status: hybrid
Estimated APC paid: $2,820
OpenAlex ID: W7140148906