Investigation of large amplitude stratified waves in a CANDU-type 37 rod nuclear fuel channel by a real-time neutron radiography technique

A real-time neutron radiography (RTNR) system is used to determine two-phase flow parameters for a horizontal co-current two-phase flow channel with a cylindrical 37 rod bundle. Image processing techniques are applied to visualize the two-phase flow, and to determine flow regime, cross-sectional averaged void fraction, time averaged void fraction, and void distribution. The experimentally determined flow regime map disagrees with existing flow regime models developed for the cylindrical rod bundles. A new flow regime is observed and designated large amplitude stratified wavy (LASW) flow. The results show that the LASW flow regime may be due to a combination of undeveloped flow phenomena, boundary conditions, and circumferential cross flow occuring in the bundle. The rods in the bundle may act as a dampener to the vertical flow component and hinders the development of the wave into plug or slug flow by changing the momentum of the fluid in the circumferential direction. The effect of gas and liquid superficial velocities and axis position on the void fraction is observed. The existence of a cylindrical bundle in a circular flow channel is found to affect the flow regime, void fraction, void migration, and void fraction fluctuation and these effects are discussed in detail.