LOFT FUEL ROD TRANSIENT DNB PROBABILITY DENSITY FUNCTION STUDIES

Significantly improved calculated DNB safety margins were defined by the development and use of probability density functions (PDF) for transient MDNBR nuclear fuel rods in the Loss of Fluid Test (LOFT) reactor. Calculations for limiting transients and response surface methods were used thereby including transient interactions and trip uncertainties in the MDNBR PDF. Applicability and sensitivity studies determined that the PDF and resulting nominal MDNBR limits are stable, applicable over a wide range of potential input parameters, and applicable to most transients.