Light Water Reactors: Operation and Design

This lecture focuses on light water reactors, particularly the operation and design of LWR plants, emphasizing the Swiss context. The instructor discusses reactor modeling, thermal behavior, power plant functioning, and reactor concepts evolution over 70 years. The lecture covers reactor components, thermodynamics, and electricity production from heat, highlighting the importance of materials science in reactor design. It also delves into reactor safety features, coolant systems, fuel assembly structure, and the role of cladding in preventing radioactive material release. The instructor explains the primary and secondary coolant circuits, steam generation, turbine efficiency, and the significance of pressure control in the system. The lecture concludes with insights into reactor efficiency, heat exchange limitations, and the operation of a pressurized water reactor.