Test method for single-unit operation of air cooler of high temperature gas-cooled reactor generator

By simulating water-filled and waterless air cooler tests, the reliability problem of single-unit operation of air cooler in high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generators was solved, ensuring temperature control of the generator when one air cooler fails, and providing safe and reliable operation guarantee.

CN116735245BActive Publication Date: 2026-03-06HUANENG SHANDONG SHIDAOBAY NUCLEAR POWER CO LTD
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Patent Information

Application Number
CN202310765436.9
Authority / Receiving Office
CN · China
Patent Type
Patents(China)
Current Assignee / Owner
Filing Date
2023-06-27
Publication Date
2026-03-06
Estimated Expiration
2043-06-27

AI Technical Summary

Technical Problem

The lack of effective testing methods for single-unit operation of air coolers in high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generators in the existing technology makes it impossible to guarantee the dynamic temperature balance and reliability of the generator when one set of air coolers fails.

Method used

A single-unit operation test method for the air cooler of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator is designed. The actual working conditions of the air cooler are simulated through water-bearing and waterless tests. Temperature and pressure data are recorded to determine the cooling capacity and sealing performance of the air cooler.

Benefits of technology

It enables a reasonable assessment of the single-unit operating capacity of the air cooler, ensures the cooling effect of the generator under different power platforms, and provides a safe and reliable operating guarantee.

✦ Generated by Eureka AI based on patent content.

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Abstract

This disclosure provides a method for single-unit operation testing of air coolers in a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator. The method includes: filling both air coolers with cooling water, shutting down one air cooler while maintaining normal operation of the other air cooler to conduct a water-loaded test; and shutting down one air cooler and releasing the cooling water therein, while maintaining normal operation of the other air cooler to conduct a waterless test. During the water-loaded and waterless tests, the cooling effect of each air cooler on the generator is determined based on its operating status. The generator power is adjusted, and the above test steps are repeated to determine the cooling effect of each air cooler on generators at different power levels. This method can perform single-unit operation capability testing of air coolers. The test is reasonable and feasible, with good results, meeting the testing requirements of the commissioning phase before air cooler use. Furthermore, it can simulate operating conditions and is simple, efficient, highly applicable, and widely applicable.
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Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure pertains to the field of high-temperature gas-cooled reactor technology, specifically relating to a single-unit operation test method for the air cooler of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator. Background Technology

[0002] The high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator is equipped with heat exchangers at the bottom to cool the generator, and external water is introduced as the air cooling source. There are a total of 4 heat exchangers, with 2 sets of air coolers in each pair. According to the design specifications, each set of air coolers has a heat exchange capacity of 1766kW, and the generator's rated heat output is 2000kW. Even if one set of heat exchangers is lost, it can still maintain 88.3% of the heat exchange capacity.

[0003] High-temperature gas-cooled reactor generators use Class A insulation, with a maximum temperature requirement below 105℃. To ensure reliability and allow on-site personnel time to detect and address defects, the alarm temperature is set at 85℃. When an air cooler fails or a pipeline blockage prevents one air cooler from being put into operation, whether a single air cooler can maintain the generator's dynamic temperature balance and keep it below the alarm temperature is a major concern for power plant personnel. Currently, there are no mature and readily available methods for single-unit operation testing of high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator air coolers.

[0004] To address the aforementioned issues, it is necessary to propose a well-designed and effective method for single-unit operation testing of the air cooler of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present disclosure aims to at least solve one of the technical problems existing in the prior art, and provides a method for single-unit operation test of air cooler of high temperature gas-cooled reactor generator.

[0006] This disclosure provides a method for single-unit operation testing of the air cooler of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator, the testing method comprising:

[0007] Both sets of air coolers are filled with cooling water. One set of air coolers is shut down while the other set remains operational to conduct a water-carrying test of the air coolers; and...

[0008] One set of air coolers is shut down and the cooling water therein is released, while the other set of air coolers is kept running normally to conduct a waterless test of the air coolers;

[0009] In the water-bearing test and the waterless test, the cooling effect of a single air cooler on the generator is determined based on the operating status of the air cooler.

[0010] Adjust the power of the generator and repeat the above test steps to determine the cooling effect of a single air cooler on generators at different power levels.

[0011] Optionally, in the water-bearing test and the waterless test, the cooling effect of a single air cooler on the generator is determined based on the operating status of the air cooler, including:

[0012] Record the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers once at a preset time interval;

[0013] If the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium and remain at this equilibrium for a preset time, and do not exceed a preset temperature threshold, then it is determined that a single set of air coolers can cool the generator.

[0014] Optionally, in the water-bearing test and the waterless test, judging the cooling effect of a single air cooler on the generator based on the operating status of the air cooler further includes:

[0015] If the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium and remain at a preset time, but exceed the preset temperature threshold, it is determined that a single set of air coolers cannot cool the generator, and the test is stopped.

[0016] Optionally, after the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium and maintained for a preset time, the method further includes:

[0017] Record the extreme temperatures at each location of the generator and the two sets of air coolers.

[0018] Optionally, the preset time ranges from 1 hour to 3 hours.

[0019] Optionally, the method further includes:

[0020] During the water test, observe whether there is any leakage in the two sets of air coolers. If there is no leakage in the two sets of air coolers, it is determined that the sealing pressure resistance of the two sets of air coolers is qualified.

[0021] Optionally, the preset time interval is in the range of 0.5h to 1.5h.

[0022] Optionally, the generator temperature includes the generator winding temperature and the core temperature.

[0023] The method for single-unit operation testing of the air cooler of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator according to an embodiment of this disclosure includes: filling both sets of air coolers with cooling water, shutting down one set of air coolers while maintaining the other set of air coolers in normal operation to conduct a water-loaded test of the air coolers; and shutting down one set of air coolers and releasing the cooling water therein while maintaining the other set of air coolers in normal operation to conduct a waterless test of the air coolers; in the water-loaded and waterless tests, judging the cooling effect of a single set of air coolers on the generator based on the operating status of the air coolers; adjusting the generator power and repeating the above test steps to judge the cooling effect of a single set of air coolers on generators at different power platforms. The test method of this disclosure can be used to conduct single-unit operation capability tests of air coolers. The test is reasonable and feasible, with good test results, and can meet the test requirements of the commissioning stage before the air cooler is used. Furthermore, it can simulate operating conditions and conduct water-loaded and waterless tests of the air cooler. It is simple, efficient, highly applicable, and widely applicable, and has already been applied to high-temperature reactor generators with good results. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of an air cooler for a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator according to one embodiment of this disclosure;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a schematic flowchart illustrating a single-unit operation test method for an air cooler of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator, which is another embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0026] To enable those skilled in the art to better understand the technical solutions of the embodiments of this disclosure, the embodiments of this disclosure will be further described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific implementation methods.

[0027] like Figure 1 As shown, the air cooler of the high-temperature gas-cooled reactor gas-cooled generator includes two sets of air coolers. Each set of air coolers includes an air cooler inlet regulating valve, a cooling water pump, a heat exchanger, an air cooler outlet valve, an inlet water pipe, and an outlet water pipe. The inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the cooling water tank via a metal pipe. The air cooler inlet regulating valve and the cooling water pump are connected in series on the inlet water pipe. The inlet of the heat exchanger is connected to the cooling water tank via an outlet water pipe. The air cooler outlet valve is connected in series on the outlet water pipe.

[0028] like Figure 2 As shown, this disclosure provides a single-unit operation test method S100 for the air cooler of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator, the test method S100 including:

[0029] S110. Fill both sets of air coolers with cooling water, shut down one set of air coolers while keeping the other set running normally, to conduct a water-carrying test of the air coolers; and,

[0030] One set of air coolers was shut down and its cooling water was released, while the other set of air coolers was kept running normally to conduct a waterless test of the air coolers.

[0031] Specifically, such as Figure 1 As shown in the embodiments of this disclosure, the air cooler includes two sets of air coolers, namely one set of air coolers and two sets of air coolers.

[0032] First, fill both air coolers (set 1 and set 2) with cooling water to maintain a full water state. Close the outlet and inlet valves of set 2, while keeping set 1 running normally to conduct a water-load test. After completing the water-load test, close the outlet and inlet valves of set 2 and release the cooling water from them. Keep set 1 running normally to conduct a waterless test.

[0033] In this embodiment, conducting water-filled and waterless tests on a single air cooler unit allows for better simulation of actual operating conditions, resulting in more reasonable test results. For example, in actual operation, one air cooler unit may stop working while fully filled with water, or it may stop working while completely dry. This test method can effectively simulate both operating conditions of the air cooler.

[0034] S120. In the water-bearing test and the waterless test, the cooling effect of a single air cooler on the generator is determined based on the operating status of the air cooler.

[0035] For example, in the water-bearing test and the waterless test, the cooling effect of a single air cooler on the generator is determined based on the operating status of the air cooler, including:

[0036] First, the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are recorded once within a preset time interval. The preset time interval ranges from 0.5h to 1.5h; preferably, in this embodiment, the preset time interval is selected as 1h.

[0037] Specifically, the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are recorded every hour. The generator temperature includes the generator winding temperature and the core temperature.

[0038] Secondly, if the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium and remain at this equilibrium for a preset time, and do not exceed a preset temperature threshold, then it is determined that a single air cooler can cool the generator. The preset time ranges from 1 hour to 3 hours; preferably, in this embodiment, the preset time range is selected as 2 hours.

[0039] Specifically, in both the water-bearing and waterless tests, the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two air coolers were recorded every hour. If the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two air coolers were in dynamic equilibrium and maintained for two hours without exceeding the preset temperature threshold, it was determined that a single air cooler could cool the generator; that is, a single air cooler could achieve the cooling of the generator.

[0040] It should be noted that the preset temperature threshold can be set according to the alarm temperature value of the air cooler. In this embodiment, the preset temperature threshold can be set to 95°C. Of course, the preset temperature threshold can also be set according to actual needs, and this embodiment does not limit it.

[0041] Furthermore, if the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium but exceed the preset temperature threshold, it is determined that a single set of air coolers cannot cool the generator, and the test is stopped.

[0042] Specifically, in both the water-cooled and waterless tests, the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two air coolers were recorded every hour. If the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two air coolers were in dynamic equilibrium and maintained for two hours, but exceeded the preset temperature threshold, it was determined that a single air cooler could not cool the generator, and the test was stopped.

[0043] For example, after the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium and maintained for a preset time, the method further includes:

[0044] Record the extreme temperatures at various locations of the generator and the two sets of air coolers.

[0045] In this embodiment, by recording the extreme temperatures at various locations of the generator and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers after the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium for a preset time, the initial data of the extreme temperatures at various locations when a single set of air coolers cools the generator can be obtained, providing a certain reference for the subsequent maintenance of the air coolers.

[0046] For example, during the water test, observe whether there is any leakage in the two sets of air coolers. If there is no leakage in the two sets of air coolers, it is determined that the sealing pressure resistance of the two sets of air coolers is qualified.

[0047] Specifically, the presence of leaks in the two sets of air coolers can be observed visually, or leak detection pipes can be installed on the air coolers to monitor for leaks. This embodiment does not impose any specific limitations.

[0048] It should be noted that during the waterless test, a leak test can also be performed on a full-water air cooler, and the test process is the same as described above.

[0049] The test method of this disclosure can be used to conduct air cooler sealing pressure resistance tests, with good test results, which can meet the test requirements of the commissioning stage before the air cooler is used.

[0050] It should be noted that after completing the single-unit operation test of one set of air coolers, the single-unit operation test should be performed on the other set of air coolers. For example, in the above test, the outlet valves and inlet valves of two sets of air coolers were closed, and one set of air coolers was kept running normally. After completing the single-unit operation test of the air coolers, the outlet valve and inlet valve of one set of air coolers can be closed, and both sets of air coolers can be kept running normally, and the above test can be continued.

[0051] S130. Adjust the power of the generator and repeat the above test steps to determine the cooling effect of a single air cooler on generators at different power levels.

[0052] Specifically, the generator power was adjusted, and the single-unit operation test process of the air cooler was repeated. Curves were plotted to determine the cooling effect of the air cooler on generators at different power levels. In other words, when generators at different power levels were running, the single-unit air cooler cooled the generator. The temperature at which the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two air coolers were in dynamic equilibrium and maintained for two hours, without exceeding the preset temperature threshold, was obtained, providing a reference for the actual operation of the air cooler.

[0053] The test method of this disclosure can be used to conduct single-unit operation capability tests of air coolers. The test is reasonable and feasible, and the test effect is good. It can meet the test requirements of the commissioning stage before the air cooler is used. Moreover, it can simulate the operating conditions and conduct water-carrying and waterless tests of the air cooler. It has the characteristics of being simple, efficient, highly applicable, and widely applicable. It has already been applied to high-temperature reactor generators with good results.

[0054] It should be noted that the specific process of the single-unit operation test method S100 for the high-temperature gas-cooled reactor generator air cooler in this embodiment will be explained in conjunction with specific embodiments.

[0055] Example 1

[0056] This embodiment describes a water-carrying test of an air cooler. The specific process is as follows:

[0057] 1) Close the outlet and inlet valves of both air coolers to keep both air coolers full of water;

[0058] 2) Keep one set of air coolers running normally, record the generator winding temperature, core temperature, and inlet and outlet air temperatures of both sets of air coolers every hour, and inspect the first and second sets of air coolers for leaks.

[0059] 3) When the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium and remain so for two hours, record the extreme temperatures at each location of the generator and air coolers.

[0060] 4) If the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium and remain so for two hours, but exceed the alarm temperature set for the test, then stop the test;

[0061] 5) Repeat the above test using two sets of air coolers;

[0062] 6) Adjust the generator power and repeat the above test on different power platforms, and plot the curves.

[0063] Example 2

[0064] This embodiment describes a waterless air cooler test, and the specific process is as follows:

[0065] 1) Shut down 2 sets of air coolers and release the cooling water inside the air coolers, while keeping 1 set of air coolers running normally;

[0066] 2) Record the generator winding temperature, core temperature, and inlet and outlet air temperatures of the two sets of air coolers every hour;

[0067] 3) When the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium and remain so for two hours, record the extreme temperatures at each location of the generator and air coolers.

[0068] 4) If the generator temperature and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two sets of air coolers are in dynamic equilibrium and remain so for two hours, but exceed the alarm temperature set for the test, then stop the test;

[0069] 5) Shut down one set of air coolers and release the cooling water inside the air coolers. Keep both sets of air coolers running normally and repeat the above test.

[0070] 6) Adjust the generator power and repeat the above test on different power platforms, and plot the curves;

[0071] 7) Organize the data for future maintenance and accident reference.

[0072] It is understood that the above embodiments are merely exemplary implementations used to illustrate the principles of the embodiments of this disclosure, and the embodiments of this disclosure are not limited thereto. For those skilled in the art, various modifications and improvements can be made without departing from the spirit and essence of the embodiments of this disclosure, and these modifications and improvements are also considered to be within the protection scope of the embodiments of this disclosure.

Claims

1. A method of testing a single set of operation of an air cooler of a high-temperature gas-cooled reactor power generator, characterized by, The test method comprises: filling cooling water in two groups of air coolers, closing one group of the air coolers and keeping the other group of the air coolers in normal operation to carry out water-carrying test of the air coolers; and closing one group of the air coolers and releasing the cooling water therein, keeping the other group of the air coolers in normal operation to carry out water-free test of the air coolers; in the water-carrying test and the water-free test, judging the cooling condition of a single group of air coolers to the generator according to the operation state of the air coolers; adjusting the power of the generator, repeating the above test steps, and judging the cooling condition of a single group of air coolers to the generator in different power platforms.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein, in the water-carrying test and the water-free test, judging the cooling condition of a single group of air coolers to the generator according to the operation state of the air coolers, comprising: recording the temperature of the generator and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two groups of air coolers once in a preset time interval; if the temperature of the generator and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two groups of air coolers are in dynamic balance and keep for a preset time, and do not exceed the preset temperature threshold, it is judged that a single group of air coolers can cool the generator.

3. The method of claim 2, wherein, in the water-carrying test and the water-free test, judging the cooling condition of a single group of air coolers to the generator according to the operation state of the air coolers, further comprising: if the temperature of the generator and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two groups of air coolers are in dynamic balance and keep for a preset time, but exceed the preset temperature threshold, it is judged that a single group of air coolers cannot cool the generator, and the test is stopped.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein, after the temperature of the generator and the inlet and outlet temperatures of the two groups of air coolers are in dynamic balance and keep for a preset time, the method further comprises: recording the limit temperature of the generator and the two groups of air coolers at each position.

5. The method of claim 4, wherein, The preset time ranges from 1h to 3h.

6. The method according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The method further comprises: in the water-carrying test, observing whether there is leakage in the two groups of air coolers, if there is no leakage in the two groups of air coolers, it is judged that the sealing pressure resistance of the two groups of air coolers is qualified.

7. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The preset time interval ranges from 0.5h to 1.5h.

8. The method according to any one of claims 2 to 4, characterized in that, The temperature of the generator includes the winding temperature and the core temperature of the generator.

Citation Information

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