HTGR Knowledge Base

IAEA-TECDOC--1238: Gas turbine power conversion systems for modular HTGRs

IAEA Technical Committee Meeting on “Gas Turbine Power Conversion Systems for Modular HTGRs”, held from 14-16 November 2000 in Palo Alto, California

International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna (Austria). Technical Working Group on Gas-Cooled Reactors, IAEA-TECDOC--1238

Abstract

The Modular HTGR concept originated in Germany in 1979, based primarily around the concept that by limiting thermal power and allowing sufficient heat losses from the reactor vessel, the key safety function of removal of residual heat could be accomplished without need for active systems. The economic viability of the concept is based on the presumption that cost savings from system simplification can offset the small unit size. All of the early modular HTGR designs were based on a Rankine cycle with steam conditions similar to modern fossil plants, except without steam reheat. As the designs advanced, more detailed cost estimates indicated that the steam cycle modular HTGR may not be cost competitive. Optimization studies in the 1990’s indicated that considerable cost savings could result from application of a closed Brayton cycle using advances in technology for open cycle gas turbines, compact heat exchangers, manufacturing and electronics. While the resulting gas turbine modular HTGR designs are based on existing technology, the specific configurations and operating environment differ considerably from existing applications. These differences introduce uncertainties and issues that must be understood and addressed in the course of development and deployment of the gas turbine modular HTGR concept.

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