ARC-100 Sodium Fast Reactor Pressure Boundary Classification and Material Selection

Abstract

Pressure boundary classification and material selection in CSA N285 was written for water cooled reactor technology operating at temperatures below where material creep would need to be considered. Pressure boundary classification is based primarily on pressure boundary system function and radionuclide content in the pressure retaining system. CSA N285 classification can be applied to non-water based technology on the basis of pressure boundary function and radionuclide content. For sodium fast reactor technologies, sodium activation (Na-24) can be compared to tritium limits found in CSA N285 by conversion of radionuclide concentration. Once converted, the pressure boundary system can be classified using rules found in CSA N285. After classification, material selection and design rules appropriate to the classification can be applied which account for high temperature service and unique high temperature effects.