CFD Model Velocity Profiles to Test Data for Inlet Nozzle Region of Nuclear PWR Fuel Assemblies
This study investigates the impact of different inlet nozzle designs on the axial velocity profiles within a PWR fuel assembly. The research, which utilized Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) models and validated the findings against experimental air test data, demonstrates how specific nozzle geometries can be optimized to reduce steep velocity gradients, thereby mitigating fuel rod vibration and fretting-wear damage.