Numerical Model of Dual-Coolant Lead-Lithium (DCLL) Blanket
Authors: A. Khodak, P. Titus, T. Brown, J.
Klabacha
Abstract: The analysis of Dual-Coolant Lead-Lithium
(DCLL) blankets requires application of Computational Fluid
Dynamics (CFD) methods for electrically conductive liquids in
geometrically complex regions and in the presence of a strong
magnetic field. Several general-purpose CFD codes allow modeling
of the flow in complex geometric regions, with simultaneous
conjugated heat transfer analysis in liquid and surrounding solid
parts. Together with a Magneto Hydro Dynamics (MHD) capability,
the general purpose CFD is applicable or modeling of DCLL
blankets. This presentation describes a numerical model based on
the general purpose CFD code CFX from ANSYS customized to include
MHD capability using a magnetic induction approach. Numerical
model involves simultaneous modelling of two different liquids in
different regions of the model: helium coolant, and lead lithium
eutectic. Additionally neutron heating is included in the code
using three dimensional heat source distribution mapped from the
results of the Attila simulations. Surface heating of the front
face of the blanket is also included. Geometry of the sample
blanket is introduced directly from the CAD using step file. Most
of the meshing was performed automatically using CFX mesher.
Special grid generation methods were used to insure accurate
resolution of the near wall boundary layers including several
layers of large aspect ratio prismatic elements. DCLL design also
includes some narrow flow regions between SiC insert and
structure. These regions were meshed using sweep method two avoid
high aspect ratio tetrahedral elements. The numerical model was
tested against benchmarks specifically selected for liquid metal
blanket applications, such as straight rectangular duct flows with
Hartmann number of up to 15000. Results for a general three
dimensional case of the DCLL blanket are also included.
Submitted to: Fusion Engineering and Design
Download PPPL-5308 (pdf
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