A Comparison of Integration Methods for the Solution of Nonlinear Reactor Dynamics Problems through the Use of Finite Elements.

Abstract

A comparison of numerical methods utilized by the finite element technique for solving a nonlinear nuclear reactor dynamics problem was conducted. Using the Crank-Nicolson, DVOGER (Gear) and Implicit Gear methods, the results showed the Implicit to be the superior method investigated. This is based on the fact that all three methods yielded the same steady state solutions; but, the Implicit Gear method used significantly less CPU time and comparable storage to Crank-Nicolson. This was particularly apparent as the degrees of freedom were increased. In addition, the transient solution in all cases was better than that obtained in Crank-Nicolson and compared favorably to that of Gear's method.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Dec 01, 1976
Accession Number
ADA035862

Entities

People

  • Ralph Carroll Sheldrick

Organizations

  • Naval Postgraduate School

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Absorption Cross Sections
  • Coefficients
  • Computer Programming
  • Computers
  • Differential Equations
  • Dynamics
  • Equations
  • Generators
  • Neutron Cross Sections
  • Neutron Flux
  • Nuclear Reactors
  • Operating Systems
  • Plastic Explosives
  • Self Assembly
  • Sense And Avoid Systems
  • Steady State
  • United States Naval Academy

Readers

  • Finite Element Method (FEM) for solving Partial Differential Equations (PDEs)
  • Tribology (the study of the boundary interaction between sliding surfaces, lubrication, wear and friction).