4. METHOD OF SOLUTION
The code is based on the lumped parameter approach and allows flexible control volume configurations. The physical model takes into account thermodynamic nonequilibrium. Using finite difference techniques a 1-dimensional representation of the discharge flow path including geometrical influences is possible.
The physical model is based on separated field equations for liquid and vapour mass and overall field equations for energy and momentum. The mass transfer rates between phases during evaporation and condensation are based on correlations for the controlled growth and shrinkage of vapour bubbles or liquid droplets, respectively.
A heat conductor model based on the energy transport equation is available for simulation of structures, electrical heater rods and fuel rods. For the heat transfer between solid structures and the fluid a comprehensive package of flow regime dependent heat transfer and critical heat flux correlations can be used. Simulation of components (valve, pressurizer, accumulator, pump, steam generator) is possible with functions or models. Power generation in solid structures may be simulated by an input time function, an electrical heater model or a neutron kinetics models.
As a result of the lumped parameter approach a set of ordinary differential equations is obtained from the field equations. These equations, together with those resulting from the simulation of critical discharge flow near the outlet by a finite difference method, are solved by an explicit/implicit integration method with automatic time step, order and error control. The ordinary differential equations representing heat conductors are solved by an essentially implicit integration method.