Conceptual core design study of a pipe type transportable molten salt fast reactor

Abstract

This study presents a new design for a transportable micro molten salt reactor (MSR) that diverges from conventional upright cylindrical configurations by utilizing a horizontally elongated, thin-walled pipe structure. This novel design aims to facilitate secure transportation and enhance the formation of a molten salt flow field within the reactor core This innovative design aims to facilitate secure transport and enhance the formation of a molten salt flow field within the reactor core. Emphasizing compactness for container loading, the reactor maximizes reflector efficiency and integrates adaptable control mechanisms suitable for its configuration. The horizontally elongated pipe reactor concept allows for the optimal arrangement of subsystems, enhancing vibration safety during transportation by lowering the overall system’s center of gravity, which, in turn, improves durability against vibrations and external impacts.

The reactor’s total dimensions are 194.68 cm in width, 185.84 cm in length, and 133.84 cm in height, incorporating U-shaped geometries with a 40 cm diameter. The single reactor system meets the target reactivity of 1.03 or higher at the beginning of the cycle and is capable of continuous operation at a 10 MWth output for a period of 3 years. By employing linear and U-shaped geometries, this design reduces the overall thickness and length while offering the flexibility to extend the reactor’s length to meet varying output requirements. This work highlights the potential of a transportable and efficient micro MSR to meet the growing demand for distributed sustainable energy solutions.