Thermophysical, Hydrodynamic and Mechanical Aspects of Molten Core Relocation to Lower Plenum

This paper presents the current state of knowledge on molten material relocation into the lower plenum. Consequences of movement of material to the lower head are considered with regardt to the potential for reactor pressure vessel failure from both thermal hydraulic and mechanical standpoints. The models are applied to evaluating various in-vessel retention strategies for the Korean Standard power plant (KSNPP) reactor The results are summarized in terms of thermal response of the reactor vessel from the very relevant severe accident management perspective.