Department of Energy FY 2012 Congressional ... - The FIRE Place

FY 2010
Actual
Approp
(dollars in thousands)
FY 2011
Request
Technology, (5) Reactor Physics, (6) Safety Analysis and Shielding, and (7) Radiological
Controls, Environmental, Safety, and Quality Efforts.
FY 2012
Request
Advanced Core and Reactor Technology: This work focuses on improving the nuclear heat
source (core) design and analysis methods and developing improved designs to satisfy service
life requirements. Funding has been identified in the estimated amount of $97,700,000 to
support this work in FY 2012, including the following:
• Continue work on core design concepts related to future submarine initiatives.
• Continue to develop new design and analysis tools to enable improved core performance.
• Continue with assembly design of the S8G Prototype test cell to support core replacement.
• Develop new technology test cell concept designs to support future fleet applications focused
on improved performance and reduced cost.
• Develop OHIO-class Replacement submarine reactor core concepts and arrangements.
• Incorporate cost reduction as part of the OHIO-class Replacement submarine core studies for
future submarine applications.
• Provide design support to perform core studies for OHIO-class Replacement submarine
applications and develop independent models and use independent analysis techniques to
calculate and validate the structural and thermal-hydraulic design of the new core.
• Develop and test a non-fueled mechanical test cell, identical in size and geometry to a fueled
reactor cell, and other key reactor design features under prototypic operating conditions for
A1B, OHIO-class Replacement submarine and future cores.
• Conduct prototypical component testing to simulate operating conditions to permit validation,
qualification, and improvement.
• Research innovative and exploratory technology that improve upon the current pressurized
water reactor, steam cycle, and electric/mechanical drive. Evaluate technology maturity and
readiness for future applications. Integrate both design concepts and technology initiatives to
support product development objectives for future ships and help align strategic technology
development planning.
Advanced Thermal-Hydraulic Technology: This work focuses on developing and qualifying
improved core and reactor component thermal and hydraulic designs. Funding has been
identified in the estimated amount of $42,600,000 to support this work in FY 2012, including the
following:
• Maintain existing thermal-hydraulic design procedures and support infrastructure.
• Develop thermal-hydraulic technologies and methods to support future advanced pressurized
water reactor (PWR) and advanced concept designs.
• Continue procurement of test hardware to support S8G prototype test cell development.
Naval Reactors/
Operations and Maintenance
Page 447
FY 2012 Congressional Budget