Study of a Nuclear Powered Tanker. Description of the 100 kW Natural Circulation High Pressure Water Loop: Installed at the "Politecnico" of Torino; STUDIO DI UNA NAVE CISTERNA A PROPULSIONE NUCLEARE. DESCRIZIONE DEL CIRCUITO DA 100 kW A CIRCOLAZIONE NATURALE PER ACQUA AD ALTA PRESSIONE DEL POLITECNICO DI TORINO

Presented is a detailed description of the natural circulation pressurized water loop operating at the Politecnico'' (Technical University) of Torino. By using this loop, it is possible to investigate burnout and instability phenomena; moreover mathematical models can be checked. The maximum installed power of 100 kw d-c heats the vertical test section, in which water is flowing at a maximum pressure of 300 kg/cm/sup 2/. The main components of the loop (pressurizer with electrical heaters, heat exchanger, motor operated valve, etc.) and the auxiliary systems (cooling, purifying, charging, vent and drain) are described. Flow, pressure and temperature rates can be recorded by using high sensitivity and precision instrumentation. A typical testing procedure is described and the installation cost breakdown is also given. (auth)