PCRELAP5 - a visual graphic preprocessor for RELAP5

Abstract

The aim of this work is to develop PCRELAP5, a visual preprocessor for RELAP5, reducing time, effort and maintenance costs spent in new projects for RELAP5. This preprocessor allows user to draw new nuclear power plant nodalization in a completely interactive way, and input parameters for each node in a more user-friendly experience. Once parameters are changed on screen, the input cards of RELAP5 code are changed in real time. RELAP5 users will have a tool to reduce time and effort for new studies and existing projects. Therefore, this project proposes to significantly leverage studies related to nuclear accident analysis, making the RELAP5 code more user-friendly. In order to demonstrate this preprocessor capability, the CANON experiment will be used as an example. The PCRELAP5 preprocessor is being developed using Microsoft® Visual Studio® as a Microsoft® Excel® add-in, due to the low cost of distribution and maintenance, and also allowing new RELAP5 projects be leveraged by the MS Excel® flexibility.