Debris Accumulation and Head-loss Data for Evaluating the Performance of Vertical Pressurised Water Reactor Recirculation Sump Screens

Experimental and analytical results are summarised from experiments sponsored by the United States (US) Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC) and performed under the direction of Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL) in facilities operated by the Civil Engineering Department at the University of New Mexico (UNM). The study generated data needed to support the resolution of Generic Safety Issue 191, which addresses debris accumulation on the pressurised water reactor (PWR) sump screen and the consequent loss of the emergency core cooling-system pump’s net positive suction head. These experiments investigated: (1) the accumulation of debris on a screen typical of those found in the PWR plants; and (2) the subsequent head loss associated with debris from calcium silicate (CalSil) insulation. Both of these investigations are key elements in the resolution of ...