Multistage Annular Induction Pump for Flexible Liquid Metal Coolant Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing nuclear reactors face challenges in efficiently controlling liquid metal coolant flow, particularly during startup and shutdown phases, due to limitations in the flexibility and efficiency of electromagnetic pumps used in liquid metal-cooled systems.
Innovation Solution
A multistage annular linear induction pump (ALIP) with independently controllable stages, each connected to separate polyphase power supplies, allows for precise control of liquid metal coolant flow by varying parameters such as frequency, current, and geometry, enhancing operational flexibility and efficiency.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single-stage electromagnetic pump is used to circulate liquid metal coolant, then the device structure is simple, but the control flexibility during startup and shutdown phases is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The electromagnetic pump is divided into multiple independent stages, each with its own induction coils and control system. This segmentation allows each stage to be controlled independently, providing flexible flow rate adjustment during different operational phases such as startup and shutdown, while maintaining a modular structure that manages complexity through standardization.
Solution Approach 2:
The pump incorporates variable frequency drives and adjustable polyphase power supplies for each stage, enabling dynamic control of the electromagnetic field strength and frequency. This allows the pump to adapt its performance characteristics in real-time to match varying coolant flow requirements throughout the reactor operational cycle.
2Measurement precision
If a multistage ALIP with independent control is implemented, then the coolant flow control precision is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multistage configuration with independent control of each stage enables precise flow rate adjustment by selectively activating or modulating individual stages. This segmented control architecture achieves high precision flow control while managing system complexity through modular design and standardized control interfaces for each stage.
Solution Approach 2:
The system employs variable frequency drives and adjustable polyphase power supplies that allow independent modification of electrical parameters (frequency, voltage, phase angle) for each stage's induction coils. This parameter control precision translates directly to precise electromagnetic force control, enabling fine-tuned flow rate adjustment without requiring complex mechanical control mechanisms.
3Productivity
If higher power is supplied to the electromagnetic pump to increase coolant flow rate, then the coolant circulation efficiency is improved, but the power consumption increases
Solution Approach 1:
The variable frequency drives enable the pump to operate at optimal efficiency points across a wide range of flow rates. By dynamically adjusting the frequency and amplitude of the polyphase power supply to match the actual coolant flow requirements, the system avoids unnecessary high-power operation while maintaining high circulation efficiency when full flow is needed.
Solution Approach 2:
The multistage configuration allows the system to activate only the necessary number of stages based on the required flow rate. Instead of always operating all stages at high power, the system applies partial action by engaging only the minimum number of stages needed to achieve the desired coolant circulation, thereby reducing overall power consumption while maintaining productivity.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The multistage ALIP provides improved control over coolant flow rates, reduces power consumption, and supports higher core power density, facilitating faster reactor startup and shutdown, while optimizing coolant flow for various operational modes.
Implementation Method 1
A plurality of induction coils are provided within the interior of the multistage ALIP. Each induction coil surrounds the longitudinal axis. The plurality of induction coils are spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction.
Implementation Method 2
a multistage annular linear induction pump (ALIP) with independently controllable stages, each connected to separate polyphase power supplies, allows for precise control of liquid metal coolant flow
Data Source
Figure 1
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Figure 3A
AI summary
A liquid metal-cooled nuclear reactor includes, within a reactor pressure vessel having a reactor core, a multistage annular linear induction pump (ALIP) configured to circulate liquid metal coolant through the reactor core. The multistage ALIP includes multiple sets of induction coils that at least partially define separate, respective stages of the multistage ALIP. The multiple sets of induction coils are configured to be electrically connected to separate, respective polyphase power supplies, such that the stages of the multistage ALIP are configured to be controlled independently of each other to adjustably control a flow of liquid metal coolant through the reactor core based on independent control of the multiple polyphase power supplies.