Nuclear Engineering ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-16-2026

Abstract

Generation IV reactors, such as the Fluoride salt-cooled High-temperature Reactor (FHR), feature efficient heat transfer and passive heat removal systems. However, accurately predicting thermal behavior under steady-state and transient conditions remains challenging. This work designs and evaluates a twisted tube heat exchanger (TTHX) serving as an intermediate heat exchanger (IHX) and a reactor cavity cooling system (RCCS) serving as a passive decay heat removal system for a generic FHR (gFHR), integrating both systems into a system-level MELCOR model. The TTHX was first designed and assessed using a MATLAB-based framework, followed by detailed MELCOR simulations. The results demonstrate effective heat transfer from the primary FLiBe salt to the secondary side during startup and steady-state operation. Following reactor shutdown, the RCCS removes decay heat through buoyancy-driven natural circulation. Overall, both TTHX and RCCS demonstrate reliable heat transfer performance and support safe operation of a gFHR under steady-state conditions.

Keywords

MELCOR, MATLAB, TTHX, RCCS, FHR

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Nuclear Engineering

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Nuclear Engineering

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Minghui Chen

Second Committee Member

Dr. Cassiano R.E. de Oliveira

Third Committee Member

Dr. David Luxat

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