water-cooled, plate-fuel reactor

Water-cooled, plate-fuel reactors are a common type of research reactor. They utilize enriched uranium fuel in plate assemblies, with water serving as both the coolant and moderator. These reactors can operate at various power levels, from kilowatts to hundreds of megawatts, and are distinguished by their thermal power, neutron density, and neutron energy rather than electricity production.1

A common configuration is the pool reactor, where the core is submerged in a large pool of water. This design facilitates observation and the placement of neutron beam ports. At lower power levels, natural convection of the water is sufficient for cooling, while higher power operations require pumps to enhance circulation. For higher power needs, tank-type reactors are often employed as they allow for simpler control of pumped water flow.1

The primary function of these research reactors is not electricity generation but rather to support scientific investigation, materials testing, and education. The heat generated by nuclear fission is removed by the coolant and typically transferred to ambient air or water without a power cycle.12