DEENBANDHU CHOTTU RAM UNIVERSITY OF SCIENCE

AND TECHNOLOGY

NUCLEAR POWER PLANT , PRESSURIZED WATER REACTOR

AND
BOILING WATER REACTOR

Team Members
Rohit Kumar(21001004058)
Sahil (21001004059)
Sonu(21001004065)
Sourav Sandhu (21001004066)

SUBMITTED TO
Dr. Amit Sharma
 NUCLEAR POWER PLANT
The history of nuclear power plants began in the early 19th
century, driven by advancements in nuclear physics and the
discovery of nuclear fission. Here’s an overview of the key
milestones in the development of nuclear power:

•1954: The USSR commissioned the world’s first commercial

nuclear power plant in Obninsk, near Moscow, producing 5
megawatts of electricity.
•1951: The first electricity generated from a nuclear reactor was
achieved at the Experimental Breeder Reactor I (EBR-I) in
Idaho, USA.
•1956: The United Kingdom opened Calder Hall, the first full-
scale commercial nuclear power station.
The 1960s and 1970s saw rapid growth in the construction of
nuclear power plants, driven by the need for cleaner and more
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LAYOUT OF NUCLEAR POWER PLANT

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 COMPONENTS of NUCLEAR POWER PLANT

• A nuclear power plant consists of several key components that work together to convert nuclear energy into
electricity. Here’s an overview of the main components:
1. Nuclear Reactor
• The nuclear reactor is the heart of the power plant, where the nuclear fission reaction takes place. It consists of:
• Fuel rods: Made of enriched uranium or plutonium, where fission occurs to release energy in the form of
heat.
• Moderator: A material (usually water, heavy water, or graphite) that slows down neutrons to sustain the
fission chain reaction.
• Control rods: Composed of materials like boron or cadmium, they absorb excess neutrons and regulate
the rate of the reaction. By inserting or withdrawing control rods, operators can control the reactor's
power output.
2. Coolant: A fluid (water, gas, or liquid metal) that transfers heat away from the reactor core to the steam generator or directly to
the turbine.
3. Turbine
• The turbine is driven by the steam produced in the steam generator. As the steam expands and cools, it turns the blades of the
turbine, converting thermal energy into mechanical energy.
4. Generator
• Connected to the turbine, the generator converts the mechanical energy from the turbine into electrical energy through
electromagnetic induction.
5. Condenser
• The condenser cools and condenses the steam exiting the turbine back into water so it can be reused. It usually uses a
secondary cooling system (like seawater, river water, or a cooling tower) to condense the steam.
6. Cooling System
• There are two main cooling loops:
• Primary loop: Carries heat away from the reactor core.
• Secondary loop: Transfers heat from the primary loop to the steam generator or the condenser.
• Cooling towers or water bodies may be used to dissipate excess heat to the environment.
7. Containment Structure
• The containment structure is a reinforced concrete and steel building that encloses the reactor, providing a barrier to contain
radioactive materials in the event of an accident.
WORKING OF Nuclear POWER PLANT
• The working of a nuclear power plant involves
several steps to convert nuclear energy into
electricity. Here’s a simplified explanation of
the process:
• 1. Nuclear Fission Reaction
• Fuel rods inside the nuclear reactor contain
enriched uranium or plutonium, which
undergoes nuclear fission.
• During fission, the nucleus of an atom splits
into smaller nuclei, releasing a significant
amount of heat energy, as well as neutrons
that continue the chain reaction.
• Control rods are used to absorb some of
these neutrons to regulate the rate of the
fission reaction, ensuring it doesn’t get out of
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control.
2. Heat Transfer
• The heat generated from fission is transferred to a coolant (usually water, but sometimes gas or liquid metal), which circulates through the reactor.
• The primary coolant loop takes the heat away from the reactor core and brings it to the next stage.
3. Steam Generation
• In Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs), the heated coolant transfers its heat to a secondary loop through a steam generator, turning the secondary loop's water
into steam. This keeps the radioactive primary coolant separate from the rest of the system.
• In Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs), the water in the reactor core itself is heated and turns directly into steam.
4. Steam Drives the Turbine
• The high-pressure steam generated is directed towards a steam turbine.
• As the steam expands and moves through the turbine blades, it causes the turbine to spin, converting the thermal energy of the steam into mechanical energy.
5. Electricity Generation
• The spinning turbine is connected to a generator, which converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy through electromagnetic induction.
• The electricity generated is then sent to a transformer, where it is adjusted to the appropriate voltage for distribution through the power grid.
6. Condensing the Steam
• After passing through the turbine, the steam enters a condenser, where it is cooled and converted back into water.
• The cooling process usually involves a secondary cooling system, such as cooling towers or a nearby water source (lake, river, or ocean).
• The condensed water is then pumped back to the steam generator or reactor to be reheated, thus completing the cycle.
7. Waste Heat Management
• The excess heat from the condenser is released into the environment via cooling towers, natural water bodies, or air-cooling systems.
• This waste heat is carefully managed to minimize environmental impact.
ADVANTAGES OF NUCLEAR POWER PLANT
• Nuclear power plants offer several advantages that make them an important energy source in many countries. Here are
some of the main benefits:
1. Low Greenhouse Gas Emissions
• Nuclear power produces minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas. The
process of nuclear fission does not release carbon dioxide (CO2), making it a significant contributor to efforts to reduce
climate change.
2. High Energy Density
• Nuclear energy has a much higher energy density than fossil fuels. A small amount of nuclear fuel can produce a large
amount of energy, meaning less fuel is needed to generate the same amount of electricity.
3. Reliable and Stable Power Generation
• Nuclear power plants can operate continuously for long periods, providing a stable and reliable source of electricity. They
typically have high capacity factors, meaning they can produce electricity consistently, day and night, regardless of weather
conditions.
4. Reduced Dependency on Fossil Fuels
• Using nuclear power reduces reliance on fossil fuels for electricity generation. This diversification of energy sources can
enhance energy security and help stabilize energy prices.
5. Technological Innovations and Efficiency Improvements
• New reactor designs, such as Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) and Generation IV reactors, promise even safer and more
efficient nuclear power generation. These advanced technologies aim to address issues like waste management, safety,
and cost.
PRESSURIZED WATER REACTOR

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COMPONENTS OF PWR
A Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) is the most common type
of nuclear reactor used in power plants worldwide. It operates
by using water under high pressure as both a coolant and a
moderator. Here are the main components of a PWR:
1. Reactor Core
•Contains the fuel assemblies, which consist of fuel rods filled
with enriched uranium dioxide pellets. The fuel undergoes
fission, releasing heat energy.
•Control rods are inserted into the core to absorb neutrons and
regulate the nuclear reaction rate. Made of neutron-absorbing
materials like boron or cadmium, they can be adjusted to
control the reactor’s power output.
•The moderator, which is also water in a PWR, slows down the
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neutrons to sustain the fission reaction efficiently.
2. Reactor Pressure Vessel (RPV)
• The reactor core is housed within the Reactor Pressure Vessel, a thick steel structure designed to contain the high-pressure
water and ensure the safe operation of the reactor.
3. Primary Coolant Loop
• This loop circulates pressurized water (primary coolant) to transfer heat from the reactor core to the steam generator. The
pressure is kept high (typically around 150-160 atmospheres) to prevent the water from boiling, even at high temperatures.
4. Steam Generator
• In the steam generator, heat from the primary coolant is transferred to a secondary coolant loop, converting the secondary
water into steam.
• The primary and secondary loops are kept separate to prevent the secondary loop from becoming radioactive.
5. Pressurizer
• The pressurizer maintains the pressure within the primary coolant loop. It uses heaters and spray systems to control the
pressure by changing the temperature of the water in the loop, ensuring that the water remains in liquid form under high
pressure.
6. Secondary Coolant Loop
• The steam generated in the steam generator is directed to the steam turbine, which converts the thermal energy of the steam
into mechanical energy.
7. Turbine and Generator
• The steam turbine is connected to a generator. As the steam expands and passes through the turbine, it causes the turbine
blades to rotate, converting the steam’s thermal energy into mechanical energy.
• The rotating turbine drives the generator to produce electricity through electromagnetic induction
WORKING OF PWR
A Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) works by using
water under high pressure as both a coolant and a
moderator to produce electricity through nuclear
fission. Here’s a step-by-step explanation of the
process:
1. Nuclear Fission in the Reactor Core
•The reactor core contains fuel assemblies, which
consist of fuel rods filled with enriched uranium
pellets. The uranium undergoes nuclear fission, where
the nuclei of uranium atoms split into smaller
fragments, releasing a large amount of heat energy
and neutrons.
•The released neutrons continue the chain reaction by
causing further fission of other uranium atoms.
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2. Heat Transfer to the Primary Coolant
• The water in the primary coolant loop, which acts as both a coolant and a neutron moderator, absorbs the heat
generated in the reactor core.
• The primary coolant is kept at a high pressure (around 150-160 atmospheres) to prevent it from boiling, even
though it reaches temperatures of around 300°C (572°F).
3. Transfer of Heat to the Steam Generator
• The hot, pressurized water from the primary loop flows through heat exchanger tubes in the steam generator.
• In the steam generator, the heat is transferred to a secondary loop, turning the water in the secondary loop into
steam. This separation ensures that the secondary loop remains non-radioactive, as it does not come into direct
contact with the reactor core.
4. Steam Drives the Turbine
• The steam produced in the steam generator is directed to the steam turbine.
• As the steam expands and passes through the turbine blades, it causes the turbine to rotate, converting the
thermal energy of the steam into mechanical energy.
5. Electricity Generation in the Generator
• The rotating turbine is connected to a generator. The generator uses electromagnetic induction to convert the
turbine’s mechanical energy into electrical energy.
• The electricity generated is then fed to the power grid for distribution.
6. Condensing the Steam
• After passing through the turbine, the steam enters a condenser, where it is cooled and condensed back into liquid
water.
• A separate cooling system (which may involve cooling towers, rivers, or seawater) removes the waste heat from the
condenser.
 ADVANTAGE OF PWR
• Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs) have several advantages that make them a popular choice for nuclear power generation. Here are some
key benefits:
1. Enhanced Safety Features
• Separate loops for primary and secondary cooling: The PWR design uses two separate loops—primary and secondary—which ensures that
the water in the steam generator and turbine remains non-radioactive. This reduces the risk of radioactive contamination in the power
generation system.
• High-pressure coolant system: The high-pressure water in the primary loop prevents boiling, making it easier to control the reactor's
temperature and avoid the risk of overheating.
2. Stable and Reliable Power Output
• PWRs can operate continuously for long periods (18-24 months) between refueling outages, providing a stable and reliable source of
electricity.
• They have a high capacity factor, which means they can produce electricity at a consistent rate, making them suitable for meeting base-load
electricity demand.
3. Widely Adopted and Well-Understood Technology
• PWRs are the most common type of nuclear reactor worldwide, accounting for about 60% of all nuclear reactors. Their widespread use
means that there is a well-established knowledge base, operational experience, and a global supply chain for maintenance and parts.
• Standardized design allows for better safety protocols, streamlined licensing, and easier training for operators.
4. Efficient Use of Fuel
• PWRs achieve a high level of fuel efficiency due to the ability to maintain a stable and controlled fission reaction.
• The moderating properties of water in the reactor also help sustain the fission process effectively, making efficient use of the nuclear fuel.
5. Lower Risk of Radioactive Release
• The containment structure around the reactor and primary loop is designed to be a robust barrier against the release of radioactive materials,
even in the case of a malfunction.
• Pressurizers and control systems ensure the reactor remains stable under various operating conditions, reducing the likelihood of accidents.
BOILING WATER REACTOR

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Components of BWR
1. Reactor Core
• The reactor core contains fuel assemblies composed of fuel rods filled with uranium dioxide pellets. The fuel undergoes nuclear fission,
releasing heat and neutrons.
• The core also has control rods made from materials like boron or cadmium that absorb neutrons to regulate the fission reaction rate. The
control rods can be inserted or withdrawn to control the reactor's power output.
• Water in the core acts as both a coolant and a neutron moderator, directly boiling due to the heat from the fission reaction.
2. Reactor Pressure Vessel (RPV)
• The reactor core is enclosed within the Reactor Pressure Vessel, which is a large, thick-walled steel container that maintains the high
pressure needed for the water to boil at a higher temperature (about 285°C or 545°F).
• The RPV ensures that the steam produced in the core is kept at a high enough pressure to drive the turbine efficiently.
3. Steam Separator and Dryer
• Steam separators are used to separate the water from the steam generated within the reactor. As the water boils, the steam rises to the top
of the reactor pressure vessel, where steam separators remove any water droplets.
• After the separators, steam dryers are used to remove remaining moisture from the steam to ensure that dry steam is sent to the turbine.
4. Main Steam Line
• The main steam line carries the dry steam produced in the reactor to the steam turbine. Since the steam comes directly from the reactor, it
is slightly radioactive, necessitating shielding in the turbine area.
5. Steam Turbine
• The steam turbine is driven by the steam coming directly from the reactor. The expanding steam turns the turbine blades, converting the
thermal energy of the steam into mechanical energy.
• The turbine is connected to a generator, which converts the mechanical energy into electrical energy.
WORKING OF BWR
1. Heat Generation and Water Boiling
•The heat produced by the fission reaction is transferred to the
water circulating in the reactor core.
•Unlike a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR), the water in the
BWR reactor vessel is allowed to boil directly inside the
reactor, creating a mixture of water and steam.
2. Steam Separation and Drying
•The steam and water mixture rises to the top of the reactor
pressure vessel. Steam separators and steam dryers are
located at the top of the reactor to separate any water droplets
from the steam.
•The dry steam is then sent to the turbine through the main
steam line, while the separated water is recirculated back into
the reactor to continue cooling the core.

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3. Steam Drives the Turbine
• The dry steam travels from the reactor pressure vessel to the steam turbine, where it expands and turns the turbine
blades.
• As the steam passes through the turbine, its thermal energy is converted into mechanical energy, causing the
turbine to spin.
4. Electricity Generation in the Generator
• The rotating steam turbine is connected to a generator, which converts the turbine’s mechanical energy into
electrical energy through electromagnetic induction.
• The electricity produced is then transmitted to the power grid for distribution.
5. Condensation of the Steam
• After passing through the turbine, the steam enters a condenser, where it is cooled and converted back into liquid
water.
• The cooling process in the condenser is usually aided by a cooling system that uses cooling towers, rivers, lakes, or
seawater to absorb the waste heat.
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6. Recirculation of Water aB

• The condensed water, now known as feedwater, is pumped back into the reactor pressure vessel using
feedwater pumps.
• Before returning to the reactor, the feedwater may pass through feedwater heaters to increase its temperature,
which improves the thermal efficiency of the reactor.
• Recirculation pumps within the reactor maintain a flow of water, controlling the amount of boiling in the core
and thereby adjusting the reactor power level.
 ADVANTAGE OF BWR
Boiling Water Reactors (BWRs) offer several advantages that contribute to their use in nuclear power generation. Here are the key benefits:
• 1. Simplified Design
• The BWR design is simpler compared to other reactor types like Pressurized Water Reactors (PWRs) because it does not require a separate steam
generator. Steam is produced directly within the reactor vessel, reducing the number of components and simplifying the system.
• This direct steam generation leads to fewer heat exchangers and lower maintenance requirements, which can reduce operational costs.
• 2. Improved Thermal Efficiency
• BWRs operate at a lower pressure than PWRs (typically around 70 atmospheres), allowing the water to boil directly in the reactor. This lower pressure
leads to higher thermal efficiency because the steam is produced at higher temperatures.
• The improved thermal efficiency means that more of the heat generated by nuclear fission is converted into electricity.
• 3. Easier Refueling and Maintenance
• The BWR design allows for easier access to the reactor core, making it more convenient to perform refueling and maintenance activities.
• The control rods in BWRs are inserted from the bottom, allowing maintenance to be performed without having to completely shut down the reactor for
long periods.
• 4. Lower Operating Pressure
• The reactor operates at a lower pressure compared to a PWR, which reduces the stress on the reactor pressure vessel and associated components.
• Lower pressure operation can reduce the risk of leaks and stress-related issues, contributing to overall reactor safety.
• 5. Enhanced Safety Features
• The design of a BWR includes multiple safety systems, such as the Emergency Core Cooling System (ECCS), to ensure safe shutdown and cooling of the
reactor in case of an emergency.
• Automatic depressurization systems allow for rapid reduction of pressure within the reactor vessel in the event of an accident, making it easier to inject
cooling water.
DIFFERENCES BEWTWEEN PWR AND BWR

Pressurized water reactor Boiling water reactor

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 Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) Boiling Water Reactor (BWR)
Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) power plants consist of two Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) power plants
loops—(i) primary loop or coolant loop that takes away heat consist of a single loop where the coolant that
from reactor, and (ii) secondary loop or working fluid loop takes away heat from the reactor is directly fed to
that drives the turbine. A heat exchanger (HE) is employed to the turbine. Thus no heat exchanger is desired.
transfer heat from primary loop to the secondary loop.

In the primary loop, normal water (H2O) acts as coolant-cum- Since it has only one loop, so normal water (H2O)
moderator. In the secondary loop, the normal water acts as serves all three purposes – cooling, moderation,
working fluid. However, water from one loop is not allowed and working fluid.
to mix with the water of other loop.

Normal water in the primary loop, that acts as moderator- Here the normal water (H2O) is allowed to
cum-coolant, is not allowed to boil. That means the water change its phase. Thus the water (liquid phase) is
remains in liquid phase throughout the cycle of primary loop. first converted into steam (gaseous phase) within
However, the water in the secondary loop is allowed to boil. the reactor, and then the steam is again
condensed to water before pumping back to
reactor.

Here steam is generated in a heat exchanger outside the Here steam is generated within the reactor itself
nuclear reactor.
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Location of Nuclear power plant