Short description:

The aim of the project is the numerical simulation of three-dimensional free convection flows of water in large vessels and the extension of the STH safety code ATHLET with an improved 3D module.

For this purpose, a high-resolution CFD model (Fine Grid CFD, FG-CFD) is first developed to describe natural convection in water tanks and validated using experimental data. The validated FG-CFD model is then used to generate an extensive data set. Based on this data, models for coarse-grid CFD (Coarse Grid CFD, CG-CFD) are derived using artificial neural networks (ANNs) and implemented in ATHLET’s 3D module. The modeling and implementation are carried out in close cooperation with the project partner GRS gGmbH. This improves ATHLET’s prediction accuracy for advanced passive safety systems, e.g. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs).