Advanced Nuclear Reactor Neutron Reflector Thermal-Hydraulic Design

Do you want to contribute to cutting-edge nuclear reactor research and development? Join us for an internship focused on designing critical components for advanced nuclear systems, including MYRRHA and Small Modular Reactors (SMRs). This hands-on opportunity will allow you to tackle real engineering challenges while gaining experience in thermal-hydraulics, neutronics, and material science.

Reflector Assembly for MYRRHA

The MYRRHA project, a pioneering lead-bismuth-cooled research reactor, requires a conceptual design for the reflector assemblies to optimize performance. The reflector assembly must operate in parallel with the fuel assembly (FA), maintaining the same pressure drop for balanced coolant distribution.

As an intern, you will:

• Evaluate different pin configurations (19, 37, or 61 pins) to determine the optimal design, balancing hydraulic efficiency and manufacturability.
• Adjust wire pitch, pin length, and diameter to fine-tune the pressure drop.
• Investigate additional features, such as orifices, to meet hydraulic performance criteria and stay within the maximum velocity limit.

This project offers a unique chance to contribute directly to the design of a critical component in an innovative research reactor.

Shielding and Reflector Assembly for SMRs

SCK CEN is a global leader in Heavy Liquid Metal (HLM) technology and is dedicated to advancing small modular lead-cooled fast reactors (SMR-LFRs). In collaboration with an international consortium of experts, SCK CEN is working on the design and development of an SMR-LFR demonstrator, leveraging its extensive experience in reactor design and HLM systems.

As part of this effort, your internship will focus on:

• Material Selection: Evaluate high-density materials such as tantalum, tungsten, and depleted uranium, assessing their benefits for neutron attenuation, activation properties, and long-term waste management.
• Pin Design: Explore different pin arrangements to achieve effective shielding and optimal hydraulic performance.
• Coolant Flow Optimization: Determine mass flow rates and ensure coolant velocity remains within operational limits to balance heat removal efficiency with structural and hydraulic constraints.

By contributing to these efforts, you will help pave the way for the next generation of SMR technologies.