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Conference Article: Power conversion unit for the South African direct cycle HTGR

Abstract

The system parameters chosen to optimise the thermal efficiency of the Eskom PBMR whilst maintaining component simplicity is discussed. Power Conversion Unit components, which are now at a preliminary design stage comprise a precooler, two turbo units consisting of a turbine driven compressor, recuperator and a power turbine, driving an alternator. Design aspects of every component is mentioned and the inventory method of poorer control is explained with reference to start-up and and shut-down events, the system an effective load following device, down to 4% of full power. Application of the same design principles for HTGRs smaller than 25 MWe is discussed.

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Reference:

Technical committee meeting on high temperature gas cooled reactor technology development. Johannesburg (South Africa). 13-15 Nov 1996.

International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna (Austria)

IAEA-TECDOC--988, pp:205-212