INL/EXT-18-44979-Revision-0

RELAP-7 Input Manual

David Andrs, Joshua Hansel, Russell

Johns, Richard Martineau, Gregg
Swindlehurst

March 2018

The INL is a U.S. Department of Energy National Laboratory

operated by Battelle Energy Alliance
 INL/EXT-18-44979-Revision-0

RELAP-7 Input Manual

David Andrs, Joshua Hansel, Russell Johns, Richard Martineau, Gregg

Swindlehurst

March 2018

Idaho National Laboratory

Idaho Falls, Idaho 83415

http://www.inl.gov

Prepared for the

U.S. Department of Energy

Under DOE Idaho Operations Office

Contract DE-AC07-05ID14517
 INL/EXT-18-44979

RELAP-7 Input Manual

Gregg Swindlehurst
David Andrs
Joshua Hansel

Russell Johns
Richard Martineau

March 2018

U.S. Department of Energy Office of Nuclear Energy

 DISCLAIMER
This information was prepared as an account of work sponsored by an
agency of the U.S. Government. Neither the U.S. Government nor any
agency thereof, nor any of their employees, makes any warranty,
expressed or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for
the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness, of any information,
apparatus, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would
not infringe privately owned rights. References herein to any specific
commercial product, process, or service by trade name, trade mark,
manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily constitute or imply its
endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the U.S. Government or
any agency thereof. The views and opinions of authors expressed herein
do not necessarily state or reflect those of the U.S. Government or any
agency thereof.
 INL/EXT-18-XXXXX

RELAP-7 Input Manual

Gregg Swindlehurst, David Andrs, Joshua Hansel,

Russell Johns, Richard Martineau

March 2018

Idaho National Laboratory

Idaho Falls, Idaho 83415

http://www.inl.gov

Prepared for the

U.S. Department of Energy
Office of Nuclear Energy
Under DOE Idaho Operations Office
Contract DE-AC07-05ID14517
Table of Contents
1.0 INPUT FILE DESCRIPTION..................................................................................................... 8
2.0 GLOBAL PARAMETERS.......................................................................................................... 9
3.0 STABILIZATIONS.................................................................................................................... 11
3.1 Entropy Viscosity......................................................................................................................... 11
3.2 Lapidus........................................................................................................................................ 11
3.3 SUPG........................................................................................................................................... 12
3.4 Pressure...................................................................................................................................... 12
4.0 FLUID PROPERTIES.............................................................................................................. 14
5.0 PRECONDITIONING.............................................................................................................. 16
6.0 OUTPUTS................................................................................................................................ 17
6.1 Comma Separated Values............................................................................................................ 17
6.2 Exodus........................................................................................................................................ 17
6.3 Console....................................................................................................................................... 18
7.0 POSTPROCESSORS............................................................................................................. 20
7.1 Average Element Size.................................................................................................................. 20
7.2 Average Nodal Variable Value..................................................................................................... 21
7.3 Change Over Time Step............................................................................................................... 21
7.4 Cumulative Value........................................................................................................................ 22
7.5 Difference................................................................................................................................... 23
7.6 Element Average Value............................................................................................................... 23
7.7 Element Extreme Value............................................................................................................... 24
7.8 Element Heat Flux....................................................................................................................... 24
7.9 Extreme Value Over Time............................................................................................................ 25
7.10 Function Value.......................................................................................................................... 26
7.11 Linear Combination................................................................................................................... 26
7.12 Mass Flux Integral..................................................................................................................... 27
7.13 Momentum Flux Integral........................................................................................................... 28
7.14 Nodal Energy Flux...................................................................................................................... 29
7.15 Nodal Extreme Value................................................................................................................. 29
7.16 Nodal Sum................................................................................................................................. 30
7.17 Number of Elements................................................................................................................. 30
2
 7.18 Number of Linear Iterations...................................................................................................... 31
7.19 Number of Nodes...................................................................................................................... 31
7.20 Number of Non-Linear Iterations............................................................................................... 32
7.21 Number of Residual Evaluations................................................................................................ 32
7.22 Point Value................................................................................................................................ 33
7.23 Real Component Parameter Value............................................................................................. 33
7.24 Real Control Data Value............................................................................................................. 34
7.25 Relative Difference.................................................................................................................... 35
7.26 Scalar Variable........................................................................................................................... 35
7.27 Scaling Factor............................................................................................................................ 36
7.28 Side Average Value.................................................................................................................... 36
7.29 Side Flux Average...................................................................................................................... 37
7.30 Side Flux Integral....................................................................................................................... 37
7.31 Side Integral Variable................................................................................................................ 38
7.32 Sum........................................................................................................................................... 39
7.33 Time Step Size........................................................................................................................... 39
7.34 Total Variable Value.................................................................................................................. 40
8.0 EXECUTIONER....................................................................................................................... 41
8.1 Transient..................................................................................................................................... 41
8.1.1 Time Stepper........................................................................................................................ 42
8.1.2 Quadrature........................................................................................................................... 42
9.0 FUNCTIONS............................................................................................................................ 44
9.1 Constant..................................................................................................................................... 44
9.2 Linear.......................................................................................................................................... 44
9.3 Parsed......................................................................................................................................... 45
9.4 Piece-Wise Bi-Linear.................................................................................................................... 45
9.5 Piece-Wise Constant....................................................................................................................46
9.6 Piece-Wise Linear........................................................................................................................ 47
9.7 Power Profile...............................................................................................................................47
10.0 HEAT STRUCTURE MATERIALS......................................................................................... 48
11.0 CONTROLS............................................................................................................................. 49
11.1 Get Function Value.................................................................................................................... 49
11.2 Post-Processor Value................................................................................................................. 49
3
 11.3 Proportional Integral Derivative................................................................................................ 49
11.4 Real Function............................................................................................................................ 50
11.5 Set Real Value........................................................................................................................... 51
11.6 Terminate................................................................................................................................. 51
11.7 Time Function........................................................................................................................... 51
11.8 Time Period............................................................................................................................... 52
11.9 Unit Trip.................................................................................................................................... 52
12.0 AUXILIARY KERNELS............................................................................................................53
12.1 Constant.................................................................................................................................... 53
12.2 Function.................................................................................................................................... 54
12.3 Mach Number........................................................................................................................... 54
12.4 Material Real............................................................................................................................. 55
12.5 Mixture Quantity....................................................................................................................... 55
12.6 Prandtl Number.........................................................................................................................56
12.7 Reynolds Number...................................................................................................................... 57
12.8 Sound Speed............................................................................................................................. 58
12.9 Saturation Temperature............................................................................................................ 58
13.0 COMPONENTS....................................................................................................................... 60
13.1 Check Valve......................................................................................................................... 60
13.2 Compressible Valve............................................................................................................. 61
13.3 Core Channel....................................................................................................................... 62
13.4 Downcomer.......................................................................................................................... 65
13.5 Elbow Pipe............................................................................................................................66
13.6 Free Boundary..................................................................................................................... 68
13.7 Heat Exchanger Connector................................................................................................. 68
13.8 Heat Generation................................................................................................................... 69
13.9 Heat Structure...................................................................................................................... 69
13.10 Ideal Pump........................................................................................................................71
13.11 Inlet.................................................................................................................................... 71
13.12 Junction............................................................................................................................. 73
13.13 Outlet................................................................................................................................. 73
13.14 Pipe................................................................................................................................... 74
13.15 Pipe With Heat Structure................................................................................................. 76
4
13.16 Point Kinetics.................................................................................................................... 78
13.17 Prescribed Reactor Power.............................................................................................. 80
13.18 Pump................................................................................................................................. 80
13.19 Reactivity Feedback........................................................................................................ 81
13.20 Simple Junction................................................................................................................ 82
13.21 Solid Wall.......................................................................................................................... 83
13.22 Turbine.............................................................................................................................. 83
13.23 Valve................................................................................................................................. 84
13.24 Volume Junction............................................................................................................... 85
13.25 Wet Well............................................................................................................................86

5
 SUMMARY

The RELAP-7 code is the next generation nuclear reactor system safety analysis code being
developed at the Idaho National Laboratory (INL). The code is based on the INL’s modern
scientific software development framework, MOOSE (Multi-Physics Object Oriented Simulation
Environment). The overall design goal of RELAP-7 is to take advantage of the previous thirty
years of advancements in computer architecture, software design, numerical integration
methods, and physical models. The end result will be a reactor systems analysis capability that
retains and improves upon RELAP5’s capability and extends the analysis capability for all reactor
system simulation scenarios.
RELAP-7 will be the next generation tool in the RELAP reactor safety/systems analysis
application series. The key to the success of RELAP-7 is the simultaneous advancement of
physical models, numerical methods, and software design while maintaining a solid user
perspective. Physical models include both PDEs (Partial Differential Equations) and ODEs
(Ordinary Differential Equations) and experimental based closure models. RELAP-7 utilizes well-
posed governing equations for compressible two-phase flow, which can be strictly verified in a
modern verification and validation effort. Closure models used in the TRACE code have been
selected to reflect the progress made during the past three decades. RELAP-7 uses modern
numerical methods, which allow implicit time integration, second-order schemes in both time
and space, and strongly coupled multi-physics.
RELAP-7 is written with object oriented programming language C++. By using the MOOSE
development environment, the RELAP-7 code is developed by following the same modern
software design paradigms used for other MOOSE development efforts. The code is easy to
read, develop, maintain, and couple with other codes. Most importantly, the modern software
design allows the RELAP-7 code to evolve efficiently with time. MOOSE is an HPC development
and runtime framework for solving computational engineering problems in a well planned,
managed, and coordinated way. By leveraging millions of lines of open source software
packages, such as PETSc (a nonlinear solver developed at Argonne National Laboratory) and
LibMesh (a Finite Element Analysis package developed at University of Texas), MOOSE reduces
the expense and time required to develop new applications. MOOSE provides numerical
integration methods and mesh management for parallel computation. Therefore RELAP-7 code
developers have been able to focus more upon the physics and user interface capability. There
are currently over 20 different MOOSE based applications ranging from 3-D transient neutron
transport, detailed 3-D transient fuel performance analysis, to long-term material aging. Multi-
physics and multi-dimensional analysis capabilities, such as radiation transport and fuel
performance, can be obtained by coupling RELAP-7 and other MOOSE-based applications
through MOOSE and by leveraging with capabilities developed by other DOE programs. This
allows restricting the focus of RELAP-7 to systems analysis type simulations and gives priority to
retain and significantly extend RELAP5’s capabilities.
6
This RELAP-7 Input Manual provides the users with a description of the input parameters for
which character strings or numerical values are provided to build a RELAP-7 input file. Some of
the input parameters are required for any RELAP-7 input file, and many others represent
optional input file parameters that can be provided at the discretion of the user. Some of the
input parameters have default values that can be superseded by user specified values.
The RELAP-7 Theory Manual describes the theoretical basis, the development of the equations
and models used in the simulation, and the numerical solution methods. The RELAP-7 User’s
Guide focuses on assisting users in developing input models by use of a progression of sample
problems of increasing complexity. These two manuals, in concert with this RELAP-7 Input
Manual, provide the necessary information to apply the RELAP-7 code to system thermal-
hydraulic analysis.

7
1.0 INPUT FILE DESCRIPTION

RELAP-7 uses a block-structured input file syntax, with each block having a standard name to indicate
the required and optional input data. Each block name is identified with brackets (“[standard name]“)
at the beginning of the block, and empty brackets (“[ ]”) at the end.

Some input file blocks may contain sub-blocks identified similarly with (“[./name]”at the beginning of
the sub-block and “[../]”) at the end. Each sub-block must have an unique name (i.e. cannot use
reserved names such as ‘pipe’ – e.g. need to use ‘pipeXX”) when compared with all other subblocks in
each specified block. Each sub-block also has a standard type identified with (“type = standard name”)
to indicate the sub-block specific input file parameters.

Input files are generally specified using syntax that consists of parameter and value pairs with an “equal
sign” between them. The parameter is a block-specific and sub-block-specific standard string, and the
value may be a string, an integer, a real number, or a list of strings, integers, or real numbers. Lists are
given in single quotes and are separated by whitespace.

If a “parameter = value” pair is repeated in the input file, then the last appearance will be used.

Comment text is preceded by a hash symbol (“#”) in the input file.

RELAP-7 uses SI units for all input file parameters.

The open source “Atom” editor (https://atom.io) is recommended for editing RELAP-7 input files as it
has plugins that assist with input file creation and editing. Drop-downs of parameter lists show the
available parameters, the required parameters, default values, and parameter descriptions.

The following report sections have detailed descriptions of input file parameters for each input file
block, and for commonly used sub-blocks. Additional parameters that are not commonly used are not
included in the table. A file with a complete list of RELAP-7 input file parameters can be obtained via the
command (“./relap-7-opt –dump >filename”).

8
2.0 GLOBAL PARAMETERS

The global parameters [GlobalParams] block includes those input parameters used by RELAP-7 that can
specified generically, such as the choice of stabilization scheme to be used in the numerical solution, and
the initial values of pressure , velocity, and temperature of the system being modeled. The generic
parameter values specified in the global parameters block are used throughout the model unless they
are superseded by specifying those same parameters in any block or subblock. None of the parameters
are required. Typically, any input that can be specified generically or mostly generically are included in
the [GlobalParams] block to reduce the volume of the input file.

In the following table the input file parameters for the [GlobalParams] block are listed.

Input File Parameters

Parameter Values
(Note: None are required but Description
those that are typically (Note: Defaults are bolded)
specified are bolded)
alpha_vapor_bounds '0.0001 0.9999' Lower and upper bounds imposed
on the vapor volume fraction.
Non-zero values are required.
chf_table aecl-ippe-1995 The lookup table used for critical
heat flux. The AECL/IPPE 1995
table is the default.
closures_type simple The ‘trace’ closures are
recommended for water. Another
option is ‘helium’.
gravity ‘0 0 -9.8’ The standard (x, y, z) gravity
‘0 0 -9.81’ vector ‘0 0 -9.81’ is recommended
heat_exchange_coef_liquid A constant heat transfer
coefficient for liquid if closures
not used
heat_exchange_coef_vapor A constant heat transfer
coefficient for vapor if closures
not used
initial_T Initial temperature for fluid if
single-phase fluid properties used
initial_T_liquid Initial temperature for liquid

initial_T_vapor Initial temperature for vapor

initial_alpha_vapor Initial vapor volume fraction for

fluid
initial_p Initial pressure for fluid if single-

9
 phase fluid properties used
initial_p_liquid Initial pressure for liquid

initial_p_vapor Initial pressure for vapor

initial_vel Initial velocity for fluid if single-

phase fluid properties used
initial_vel_liquid Initial velocity for liquid

initial_vel_vapor Initial velocity for vapor

interface_transfer true Interface heat and mass transfer

on
stabilization User-selected name of the
stabilization option specified in
the Stabilizations block.
wall_mass_transfer true Turns on the wall boiling model
and is recommended

10
3.0 STABILIZATIONS

The stabilizations [Stabilizations] block creates the stabilization options that can be selected by the
GlobalParams block or by Pipe components to stabilize the numerical solution method used in RELAP-7.
The stabilization options can differ with regard to the applicability to single-phase or two-phase
conditions. More than one option can be created for subsequent selection in the same input file.

Other stabilization options are included in RELAP-7 but are not specified here.

In the following sections the input file parameters that typically require values to be entered (e.g.
required and no default values) for each of the [Stabilizations] sub-blocks are listed.

3.1 Entropy Viscosity

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block name

type EntropyViscosity The entropy viscosity option is

applicable to single or two-phase
conditions
use_first_order false ‘true” means a first-order scheme
is used. ‘false’ means the second-
order scheme is used and is the
default and recommended.

3.2 Lapidus

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block name

type Lapidus The Lapidus option is applicable to

single or two-phase conditions
cl 1 Coefficient for single phase.
(zero to 2) Recommended values range from
zero to 2 with a default value of 1.
cl_liquid 1 Coefficient for liquid phase.
(zero to 2) Recommended values range from
11
 zero to 2 with a default value of 1.
cl_vapor 1 Coefficient for vapor phase.
(zero to 2) Recommended values range from
zero to 2 with a default value of 1.
use_first_order false ‘true” means a first-order scheme
is used. ‘false’ means the second-
order scheme is used and is the
default and recommended.

3.3 SUPG

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block name

type SUPG The Streamline Upwind Petrov

Galerkin (SUPG) option is
applicable to single-phase
conditions

3.4 Pressure

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block name

type StabilizationPressure The stabilization pressure option is

applicable to single-and two-phase
conditions
order ‘FIRST’ means dissipation is
added according to the first
derivative (gradient) of
pressure. ‘SECOND’ means
dissipation is added according to
the second derivative
(curvature) of pressure.

ce 1.5 Coefficient for single phase.

(zero to 2) Recommended values range from
zero to 2 with a default value of
12
 1.5.
ce_liquid 0.5 Coefficient for liquid phase.
(zero to 2) Recommended values range from
zero to 2 with a default value of
0.5.
ce_vapor 0.5 Coefficient for vapor phase.
(zero to 2) Recommended values range from
zero to 2 with a default value of
0.5.

13
4.0 FLUID PROPERTIES

The fluid properties [FluidProperties] block creates sub-blocks of various fluid properties coded in RELAP-
7 (e.g. water, air/water, helium, or nitrogen) that can then be referencedin other blocks by components
including fluid. For water the IAPWS 95 water properties are used. In addition, if only the liquid or
steam phase is present, the IAPWS 95 water properties for either single phase can be specified for
computational efficiency, but are not necessary.

Properties for other fluids, such as sodium or an ideal gas, are included in RELAP-7 but are not specified
here.

In the following table the input file parameters for the [FluidProperties] sub-blocks are listed.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

IAPWS95 7 Equation Fluid Properties

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component

name
type IAPWS957EqnFluidPropertie This option is typically used for
s water properties as it is applicable
to two-phase conditions

IAPWS95 Liquid Properties

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component

name
type IAPWS95LiquidProperties This option can be used if only
liquid phase water is modeled

IAPWS95 Vapor Properties

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component

name
type IAPWS957VaporProperties This option can be used if only
vapor phase water is modeled

Air/Water 7 Equation Fluid Properties

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component

name
type Air/Water7EqnFluidProperti This option can be used if an
es air/water problem is modeled
14
Helium Fluid Properties

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component

name
type HeliumFluidProperties Specifies helium gas properties for
an ideal gas model
R 2076.9 Gas constant
beta Coefficient of thermal expansion
gamma .667 gamma value (cp/cv)
k Thermal conductivity
mu Dynamic viscosity

Nitrogen Fluid Properties

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component

name
type N2FluidProperties Specifies nitrogen gas properties
for an ideal gas model
chi_cp 1 Uncertainty coefficient on specific
heat at constant pressure
chi_k 1 Uncertainty coefficient on thermal
conductivity
chi_mu 1 Uncertainty coefficient on viscosity
chi_p 1 Uncertainty coefficient on pressure

15
5.0 PRECONDITIONING

The preconditioning block [Preconditioning] specifies the preconditioner to be used by the RELAP-7
code. The single matrix preconditioner (SMP) is the recommended option.

Other preconditioners and options are included in RELAP-7 but are not specified here.

In the following table the Input File Parameters for the SMP preconditioner sub-blocks is listed.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type SMP Designates the recommended single
matrix preconditioner (SMP)
full true True is recommended to obtain the
false full set of couplings
solve_type PJFNK Preconditioned Jacobian-Free
Newton Krylov (PJFNK) is the
recommended option

16
6.0 OUTPUTS

The outputs [Outputs] block specifies the RELAP-7 output files that are generated for run-time or post-
processing applications.

Other output options are included in RELAP-7 but are not specified here.

In the following sections the output file format options and parameters for the[Outputs] sub-blocks are
listed.

6.1 Comma Separated Values

The primary use of the comma separated values (CSV) format output file is for use by the graphical user
interface (GUI).

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block name

type csv Designate that the output file is in

the comma separated values (CSV)
format
execute_on 'initial timestep_end' Control the execution of the output
file. Options are to set to
(none|initial|linear|nonlinear|time
step_end|timestep_begin|final|fai
led|custom) to execute only at that
moment
show A list of the variables and
postprocessors that should be
output to the csv file (may include
variables, scalarVariables, and
postprocessor names).
sync_only If true only export results at sync
times that execution and outputs
are forced to occur
sync_times Times at which the output and
solution are forced to occur

6.2 Exodus
The primary use of the exodus output file is for use by the Paraview post-processor.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

17
 (Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block name

type Exodus Designates that the output file is in

the Exodus format
execute_on 'initial timestep_end' Control the execution of the output
file. Options are to set to
(none|initial|linear|nonlinear|time
step_end|timestep_begin|final|fai
led|custom) to execute only at that
moment
show A list of the variables and
postprocessors that should be
output to the Exodus file (may
include Variables, ScalarVariables,
and Postprocessor names).
sync_only Only export results at sync times

sync_times Times at which the output and

solution is forced to occur
use_displaced_mesh false Specify ‘true’ to always use
true displaced mesh

6.3 Console
The console output format is viewable on the computer screen.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block name

type console Designates that the output file is in

the format to be viewed on the
console
execute_on 'initial timestep_end initial Control the execution of the output
timestep_begin linear file. Options are to set to
nonlinear failed' (none|initial|linear|nonlinear|time
step_end|timestep_begin|final|fai
led|custom) to execute only at that
moment
outlier_variable_norms If true outlier variable norms will
be printed after each solve
perf_log If true only export results at sync
times that execution and outputs

18
 are forced to occur
show Times at which the output and
solution are forced to occur
sync_only Only export results at sync times

sync_times Times at which the output and

solution is forced to occur

19
7.0 POSTPROCESSORS

The post-processor [Postprocessors] block specifies sub-blocks that calculate values that are used for
run-time or post-processing applications.

Other post-processor options are included in RELAP-7 but are not specified here.

In the following sections the input file parameters for the [Postprocessors] sub-blocks are listed.

Post-processors that include the “boundary” parameter refers to [Inlet] and [Outlet] components and to
two-dimensional [HeatStructure] components.

Vector post-processors exist in RELAP-7 for applications such as fluid temperatures along the length of a
pipe. These are not specified here.

Commonly used post-processors are the [PointValue] that outputs the value of a parameter at a specific
location (x, y, z), the [ElementExtremeValue] that outputs a maximum or minimum value of a
component parameter, and the [TimeStepSize] that outputs the time step size.

7.1 Average Element Size

The average element size postprocessor [AverageElementSize] sub-block computes an average element
size (length) for the whole domain. If the component names (blocks) are specified, then the average
length is for those components.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type AverageElementSize Designates an average element size
post-processor
variable (any value) This variable is not used here but is
currently required so use any value
block The list of component names to be
included in the calculation. If none
are specified then all will be
included.
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|tim
estep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console, csv,
exodus) for this post-processor. If
none provided then all specified in

20
 [Outputs] will be used.

7.2 Average Nodal Variable Value

The average nodal variable value [AverageNodalVariavbleValue] sub-block computes an average nodal
value of a field variable (e.g. temperature in a pipe) for a component or components.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type AverageNodalVariableValue Designates an average nodal
variable value post-processor
variable The component parameter whose
value is to be averaged
boundary The unique name(s) of a boundary
condition component(s) (e.g.
InletXX).
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.3 Change Over Time Step

The change over time step post-processor [ChangeOverTimeStepPostprocessor] sub-block computes the
change in a post-processor value (new value minus old value), or the magnitude of its relative change
(new value minus old value, divided by old value), over a time step or over the entire transient.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type ChangeOverTimeStepPostpro Designates a change over time step
cessor post-processor
variable (any value) This variable is not used but is
currently required so use any value
postprocessor The name of the post-processor
output value input to this post-
processor
21
 Change_with_respect_to_ true The default ‘true’ indicates that the
initial change is with respect to the time
zero value. ‘False’ indicates the
change if based on the value from
the previous time step.
compute_relative_change false The default ‘false’ indicates that
the change in the value will be
output. ‘True’ indicates that the
relative change in the value will be
output.
execute_on 'timestep_end' Control the execution of the output
file. Options are to set to
(none|initial|linear|nonlinear|time
step_end|timestep_begin|final|fail
ed|custom) to execute only at that
moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console, csv,
exodus) for this post-processor. If
none provided then all specified in
[Outputs] will be used.

7.4 Cumulative Value

The cumulative value post-processor [CumulativeValuePostprocessor] sub-block computes a cumulative
sum of a post-processor value over a transient.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type CumulativeValuePostprocess Designates a cumulative value post-
or processor
postprocessor The name of the post-processor
value input to this post-processor
execute_on ' timestep_end' Control the execution of the output
file. Options are to set to
(none|initial|linear|nonlinear|time
step_end|timestep_begin|final|fail
ed|custom) to execute only at that
moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console, csv,
exodus) for this post-processor. If
none provided then all specified in
[Outputs] will be used.

22
7.5 Difference
The difference post-processor [DifferencePostprocessor] sub-block computes the difference between
two post-processors.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
Type DifferencePostprocessor Designates a difference post-
processor
value1 Name of the post-processor whose
output is the first value in the
difference calculation
value2 Name of the post-processor whose
output is the second value in the
difference calculation
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.6 Element Average Value

The element average value post-processor [ElementAverageValue] sub-block computes the average
value of a specified parameter for a component or components.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type ElementAverageValue Designates an element average
value -processor
variable The component parameter whose
value is to be averaged
block The list of component names to be
included in the calculation. If none
are specified then all will be
included.
execute_on timestep_end Set to

23
 (nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.7 Element Extreme Value

The element extreme value post-processor [ElementExtremeValue] sub-block determines the extreme
value (maximum or minimum) for a component parameter.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type ElementAverageValue Designates an element extreme
value post-processor
variable The component parameter whose
extreme value is to be determined
block The list of component names to be
included in the calculation. If none
are specified then all will be
included.
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.
value_type max Type of extreme value to return.
'max' returns the maximum value.
'min' returns the minimum value.

7.8 Element Heat Flux

The element heat flux [ElementHeatFluxPostprocessor] post-processor sub-block computes the
integrated heat flux (positive value indicates into the heat structure) across a heat structure
[HeatStructure] component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

24
 (Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type ElementHeatFluxPostprocess Designates an element heat flux
or post-processor
Hw Heat transfer coefficient of the wall

P_hf Heat flux perimeter

T_wall Temperature of the wall

T_fluid Temperature of the fluid

block The list of heat structure names to

be included in the calculation. If
none are specified then all will be
included.
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.9 Extreme Value Over Time

The extreme value over time post-processor [TimeExtremeValue] reports the maximum or minimum
value, or the absolute value of the maximum or minimum value, of the output value of another post-
processor.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type TimeExtremeValue Designates a extreme value post-
processor
postprocessor The name of the postprocessor
whose output value is evaluated
for extreme values
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti

25
 mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.
value_type max Type of extreme value to return:
'max returns the maximum value;
'min' returns the minimum value;
'abs_max' returns the maximum
absolute value; 'abs_min' returns
the minimum absolute value.

7.10 Function Value

The function value post-processor [FunctionValuePostprocessor] sub-block specifies the function that
provides the value to be used in another post-processor. A typical use would be a function that samples
a parameter value in time at a specified point in space. The point in space is specified by this post-
processor.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type FunctionValuePostprocessor Designates a function value post-
processor
function The name of the function that
supplies the input value to this
postprocessor
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.
point '0 0 0' A point in space (x,y,z) to be given
to the function
use_displaced_mesh false Specify ‘true’ to always use
true displaced mesh

26
7.11 Linear Combination
The linear combination post-processor [LinearCombinationPostprocessor] sub-block calculates the sum
of pairs of post-processor output values (input to this post-processor) multiplied by coefficients
(parameter values specified in this postprocessor), plus a constant value (specified in this post-
processor).

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type LinearCombinationPostproce Designates a linear combination
ssor post-processor
pp_coefs List of coefficients to be multiplied
by post-processor values listed in
the ‘pp_names’ parameter. These
are paired values.
pp_names List of post-processor names
whose values are multiplied by the
list of coefficients in the ‘pp_coefs’
parameter. These are paired
values.
b 0 A constant value to be add to the
sum of pairs of multiplied values.
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.12 Mass Flux Integral

The mass flux integral post-processor [MassFluxIntegral] sub-block calculates the integrated mass flux
(total mass) across a boundary condition component (e.g. [Inlet]).

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type MassFluxIntegral Designates a mass flux integral post-
processor

27
 arhouA Product of void fraction * density
*velocity*area
boundary The unique name(s) of a boundary
condition component(s) (e.g.
InletXX).
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.13 Momentum Flux Integral

The momentum flux integral post-processor [MomentumFluxIntegral] sub-block calculates the integral
of the momentum flux across a boundary component, such as an [Outlet].

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type MomentumFluxIntegral Designates a momentum flux
integral post-processor
A Area

arhouA Product of void fraction * density

*velocity*area
boundary The unique name(s) of a boundary
condition component(s) (e.g.
OutletXX).
p Pressure

vel Velocity

alpha 1.0 Volume fraction (two-phase only)

execute_on timestep_end Set to

(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-

28
 processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.14 Nodal Energy Flux

The nodal energy flux post-processor [NodalEnergyFluxPostprocessor] sub-block calculates the energy
flux across a boundary component, such as an [Outlet].

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type NodalEnergyFluxPostprocess Designates a nodal energy flux
or post-processor
H Specific total enthalpy is the sum of
the specific enthalpy and the
specific kinetic energy.
arhouA Alpha(liquid void
fraction)*rho*u*A
boundary The unique name(s) of a boundary
condition component(s) (e.g.
OutletXX).
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.15 Nodal Extreme Value

The nodal extreme value post-processor [NodalExtremeValue] sub-block determines the extreme value
(maximum or minimum) for a boundary component (e.g. [Outlet]) parameter.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type NodalExtremeValue Designates a nodal extreme value
post-processor
variable The component parameter whose
29
 extreme value is to be determined
boundary The unique name(s) of a boundary
condition component(s) (e.g.
OutletXX).
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.
value_type max Type of extreme value to return:
'max’ returns the maximum value.
'min' returns the minimum value.

7.16 Nodal Sum

The nodal sum value post-processor [NodalSum] sub-block sums the values of a parameter for all of the
nodes in a component at each time step. An example would be summing nodal mass values to obtain a
total mass output for this post-processor.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
Type NodalSum Designates a nodal sum post-
processor
variable The component parameter value
that will be summed.
block The component containing the
nodes for which the parameter
values will be summed each time
step.
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

30
7.17 Number of Elements
The number of elements post-processor [NumElems] sub-block provides the total number of elements
in the simulation model.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type NumElems Designates a number of elements
post-processor
elem_filter active Specifies that only active elements
(those are used in the simulation
model) are counted
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.18 Number of Linear Iterations

The number of linear iterations post-processor [NumLinearIterations] sub-block outputs the number of
linear iterations at each time step.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type NumLinearIterations Designates a number of linear
iterations post-processor
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

31
7.19 Number of Nodes
The number of nodes post-processor [NumNodes] sub-block outputs the number of nodes.

Input Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type NumNodes Designates a number of nodes post-
processor
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.20 Number of Non-Linear Iterations

The number of non-linear iterations post-processor [NumNonlinearIterations] sub-block outputs the
number of non-linear iterations at each time step.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type NumNonlinearIterations Designates a number non-lonear
iterations post-processor
accumulate_over_step false Specify ‘true’ to count the number
true of non-linear iterations for each
time step
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

32
7.21 Number of Residual Evaluations
The number of residual evaluations post-processor [NumResidualEvaluations] sub-block outputs the
number of residual evaluations at each time step.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type NumResidualEvaluations Designates a number of residual
evalations post-processor
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.22 Point Value

The point value post-processor [PointValue] sub-block outputs the value of a parameter (e.g.
temperature) at a specific location (x, y, z) in the displaced mesh.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type PointValue Designates a point value post-
processor
point ‘0 0 0’ The physical point where the
solution will be evaluated.(‘x y z’)
variable The parameter name (e.g. ‘T’, ‘p’
whose value is to be output.
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) [initial time
step_end] to execute only at that
moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
33
 used.
use_displaced_mesh false Specify ‘true’ to always use
true displaced mesh

7.23 Real Component Parameter Value

The real component parameter value postprocessor [RealComponentParameterValuePostprocessor] sub-
block outputs the numerical value of a component parameter.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type RealComponentParameterVa Designates a real component
luePostprocessor parameter value post-processor

component The name of the component whose

parameter value is output.
parameter The name of the component
parameter whose numerical value
is output
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.24 Real Control Data Value

The real control data value postprocessor [RealContolDataValuePostprocessor] sub-block outputs the
numerical value of a control.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type RealControlDataValuePostpr Designates a real control data value
ocessor post-processor
control_data_name The name of the control whose
numerical value is output.
execute_on timestep_end Set to
34
 (nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.25 Relative Difference

The relative difference post-processor [RelativeDifferencePostprocessor] sub-block computes the
absolute value of the relative difference between two post-processor values.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type RelativeDifferencePostproces Designates a difference post-
sor processor
value1 First post-processor that provides a
value
value2 Second post-processor that
provides a value to be used as the
base for relative difference
compared to the first value
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.26 Scalar Variable

The scalar variable post-processor [ScalarVariable] sub-block outputs a scalar variable value for a
specified component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
35
 type ScalarVariable Designates a scalar variable post-
processor
variable Name of the component scalar
parameter
component 0 Component whose scalar variable
is output
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.27 Scaling Factor

The scaling factor post-processor [ScalePostprocessor] multiplies a post-processor value by a specified
scaling factor.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type ScalePostprocessor Designates a scaling post-processor

value The post-processor whose output

value is to be multiplied by the
scaling factor
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.
scaling_factor 1 The scaling factor that is used as a
multiplier applied to the post-
processor value

7.28 Side Average Value

The side average value post-processor [SideAverageValue] computes the average value of a parameter
36
for a heat structure [HeatStructure] surface.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type SideAverageValue Designates a side average value
post-processor
boundary The name of the heat structure
component
variable The name of the parameter to be
averaged (e.g. T_surface)
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.29 Side Flux Average

The side average flux post-processor [SideFluxAverage] computes the average of the flux for a heat
structure [HeatStructure] surface.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type SideFluxAverage Designates a side average flux post-
processor
boundary The name of the heat structure
component
diffusivity The name of the diffusivity material
property that will be used in the
flux computation.
variable The name of the flux parameter
(e.g. heat flux) to be averaged
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
37
 csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.30 Side Flux Integral

The side flux integral post-processor [SideFluxIntegral] computes the integral of the flux for a heat
structure [HeatStructure] surface.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type SideFluxIntegral Designates a side flux integral post-
processor
boundary The name of the heat structure
component
diffusivity The name of the diffusivity material
property that will be used in the
flux computation.
variable The name of the flux parameter
(e.g. heat flux) to be integrated
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.31 Side Integral Variable

The side integral variable post-processor [SideIntegralVariablePostprocessor] computes the integral of a
heat structure component [HeatStructure] surface parameter value.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type SideIntegralVariablePostproc Designates a side integral variable
essor post-processor
boundary The name of the heat structure
38
 component
variable The name of the component
parameter to be integrated
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.32 Sum
The sum post-processor [SumPostprocessor] computes the sum of two post-processors.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
Type SumPostprocessor Designates a sum post-processor

a Name of first postprocessor whose

value is to summed
b Name of second postprocessor
whose value is to summed
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.33 Time Step Size

The time step size post-processor [TimeStepSize] outputs the time step size.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
39
 type TimeStepSize Designates a time step size post-
processor
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.

7.34 Total Variable Value

The total variable value size post-processor [TotalVariableValue] sub-block integrates the output value
of a post-processor.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values Description

(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)

[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type TotalVariableValue Designates a total variable post-
processor
execute_on timestep_end Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
outputs The output names (i.e. console,
csv, exodus) for this post-
processor. If none provided then
all specified in [Outputs] will be
used.
value The name of the postprocessor
whose output value is to be
integrated

40
8.0 EXECUTIONER

The executioner [Executioner] block specifies either the input file as either a transient [Transient] or a
control logic [ControlLogic] execution, and includes parameters and values related to time step selection
and solver tolerances.

Other executioners and options are included in RELAP-7 but are not specified here.

In the following sections the input file parameters for the [Executioner] blocks and sub-blocks are listed.

8.1 Transient
The transient [Transient] sub-block specifies most of the parameters that control a transient execution.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
type Transient Designates execution of a
transient problem
dt 1 The time step size between solves
if the adaptive time step option is
not used
dtmax 1e+30 The maximum time step size in an
adaptive run. As an option this
can be specified to control output
file size.
dtmin 1e-04 The minimum time step size in an
2e-14 adaptive run. The recommended
value is 1e-04.
end_time 1e+30 The end time of the simulation is
to be determined based on
problem-specific considerations.
l_max_its 100 Maximum number of linear
10000 iterations. The recommended
value is 100.
l_tol 1e-02 Linear iteration tolerance. The
1e-05 recommended value is 1e-02.
nl_abs_tol 1e-04 Non-linear iteration absolute
1e-50 tolerance. The recommended
value is 1e-04.
nl_max_its 10 Maximum number of non-linear
50 iterations. The recommended
value is 10.
nl_rel_tol 1e-06 Non-linear iteration relative
1e-08 tolerance. The recommended
41
 value is 1e-06.
scheme 1) bdf2 The backward difference time
2) implicit-euler integration scheme (bdf2) is
recommended
start_time 0 The start time of the simulation is
time zero.

8.1.1 Time Stepper

The time stepper [TimeStepper} sub-block specifies the time advancement for the numerical method.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] TimeStepper Specifies the time stepper sub-
block
type 1) SolutionTimeAdaptiveDT Specifies the time step option. The
2) FunctionDT recommended option is the
3) ConstantDT adaptive time step. The
functionDT is a table of time
(time_t)/time step (time_dt) pairs.
dt Value of first time step for adaptive
time step option, and for the
function option. Constant time
step value for constant option.
percent_change 0.1 This is the percent that the time
step is allowed to change using the
adaptive time step.
time_t GUI pairs these with “time_dt”

8.1.2 Quadrature
The quadrature [Quadrature] sub-block specifies the type of numerical integration (quadrature) with the
two options being trapezoidal and Gaussian (recommended), and the order of the numerical integration
with the options being first and second (recommended). For some problems that have stability issues
with the recommended quadrature the other option (TRAP/FIRST) may have some benefit.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Quadrature Specifies the Quadrature sub-block

type TRAP Specifies the type of quadrature.

GAUSS The recommended type is GAUSS
(Gaussian).
order FIRST Specifies the order of the
42
SECOND quadrature. The recommended
order is SECOND.

43
9.0 FUNCTIONS

The functions block [Functions] provides any functions used by RELAP-7 code such as reactor power as a
function of time, pipe flow area as a function of length, or a pressure boundary condition as a function
of time. Specific functions are available for selection as sub-blocks.

Other functions are included in RELAP-7 but are not specified here.

In the following sections the input file parameters for the [Functions] sub-blocks are listed.

9.1 Constant
The constant function [ConstantFunction] returns a constant value.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block function
name
type ConstantFunction Designates function is a constant
function
value 0 The constant value

9.2 Linear
The linear function [LinearFunction] calculates the value from a linear equation (a+b*x) given constant
values of ‘a’ and ‘b’, and a function ‘x”.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block function
name
type LinearFunction Designates function is a linear
function
a The constant in a + b * x

b The gradient value in a + b *x

x_func The x function

44
9.3 Parsed
The parsed function calculates a value from a user-defined function consisting of variable/value pairs,
numerical values, generic parameters (e.g. “t” (time), “x, y, z” (coordinates), “pi” (π), and mathematical
functions (e.g. “sin’ for sine). Refer to
http://warp.povusers.org/FunctionParser/fparser.html#functionsyntax for a complete list of syntax.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block function
name
type ParsedFunction Designates function is a parsed
function
value User defined function (equation)
consisting of variables (‘vars’ with
paired numerical values), numerical
constants, generic parameters (t, x,
y, z, pi), and mathematical
functions (e.g. ‘sin’ for sine). Also,
variables can be paired with post-
processor names (as vals), and then
the post-processor output values
are used in the function.
vals List of numerical values
corresponding to ‘vars/vals’ pairs.
Also, postprocessor names can be
used and paired to ‘vars’ variables.
vars List of variable names (excluding t,
x, y, z) corresponding to ‘vars/vals’
pairs used in the function.

9.4 Piece-Wise Bi-Linear

The piece-wise bi-linear [PiecewiseBilinear] function interpolates between pairs of any of the spatial
coordinates or time values (x, y, z, or t) from a user-specified comma-separated (“.csv”) file. The input
parameters designate which of the four types of values are stored in the rows and columns of the “.csv”
file. For example, the stored values may be values of “x’ vs. ‘t’, or values of ‘y’ vs. ‘z’. The input files
specifies values of pairs of the two selected variables and performs the interpolation.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block function
name
type PiecewiseBilinear Designates function is a piece-wise
45
 bi-linear function
axis 1 The first row in the “.csv” file are
spatial data with (‘0’, ‘1’, or ‘2’)
designating the ( x, y,or z)
coordinate. The first column are
values of time. Do not provides
values for ‘xaxis’ or ‘yaxis’
parameters.
data_file Name of file holding .csv data

x The x abscissa values to be

interpolated
xaxis 1 The first row in the “.csv” file are
spatial data with (‘0’, ‘1’, or ‘2’)
designating the ( x, y,or z)
coordinate. Do not provide a value
for the ‘axis’ parameter. A value
for ‘yaxis’ must be provided.
y The y abscissa values to be
interpolated
yaxis 1 The first column in the “.csv” file
are spatial data with (‘0’, ‘1’, or ‘2’)
designating the ( x, y,or z)
coordinate. A value for the ‘xaxis’
must be provided.
z The ordinate values to be
interpolated

9.5 Piece-Wise Constant

The piece-wise constant function [PiecewiseConstant] defines a set of x/y data pairs with no
interpolation.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block function
name
type PiecewiseConstant Designates function is a piecewise
constant function
axis The axis used (x,y, or z) if this is to
be a function of position
x The abscissa values

46
9.6 Piece-Wise Linear
The piece-wise linear function [PiecewiseLinear] linearly interpolates between values of (x, y) data pairs.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block function
name
type PiecewiseLinear Designates function is a piecewise
linear function
axis The axis used (x y or z) if this is to
be a function of position
x The abscissa values

y The ordinate values

9.7 Power Profile

The power profile function [PowerProfileFunction] specifies a standard chopped cosine axial shape and
can be used by the [HeatGeneration] and [Subchannel] components.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block function
name
type PowerProfileFunction Designates function is a piecewise
linear function
component 2 The component (x or y or z) with
the recommended value of ‘2’
corresponding to a vertical fuel
assembly
length The heated length of the fuel
assembly
coef 1 The axial peaking factor

47
10.0 HEAT STRUCTURE MATERIALS

The heat structure materials [HeatStructureMaterials] block specifies the RELAP-7 parameters
necessary to describe the physical properties of solid materials such as ceramics and metals.
The input is specified in solid materials properties [SolidMaterialProperties} sub-blocks for each
material type.
In the following table the input file parameters for the [SolidMaterialPropertiess] sub-blocks are listed.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block solid
material, typically a specific metal
or ceramic
type SolidMaterialProperties Designates sub-block is solid
material properties
Cp Specific heat

k Thermal conductivity

rho Density

48
11.0 CONTROLS

The controls [Controls] block specifies the modeling of control systems in RELAP-7 input files. A set of
sub-blocks describe specific control system parameters.

All of the controls that are included in RELAP-7 are specified here.

Some of the parameters that are not typically used are not included.

In the following sections the input file parameters for the [Controls] sub-blocks are listed.

11.1 Get Function Value

This control [GetFunctionValueControl] is called by an upstream control, and specifies the function that
will return the parameter value to be used by the upstream control.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block control name
type GetFunctionValueControl Designates control is a get function
value control
function The name of the function
prescribing a value to be used on a
control

11.2 Post-Processor Value

This control [GetPostprocessorValueControl] specifies the output of a post-processor to be used in a
downstream control.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block control name
type GetPostprocessorValueContr Designates control is a get post-
ol processor value control
postprocessor The name of the post-processor
prescribing a value to be used in a
control

11.3 Proportional Integral Derivative

This control [PIDControl] is used in RELAP-7 to model a proportional integral derivative (PID) control.

49
 Input File Parameters Parameter Values
Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block control name
type PIDControl Designates control is a PID control
initial_value The initial value for the integral
part
input The name of the control data that
is the input
K_d The coefficient for the derivative
term
K_i The coefficient for the integral
term
K_p The coefficient for the proportional
term
set_point The name of the control data with
the set point

11.4 Real Function

This control [RealFunctionControl] sets the value of a input parameter to the value of a specified
function.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block control name
type RealFunctionControl Designates control is real function
control
function The function to use to determine
the value of the specified
parameter.
parameter The input parameter that will be
assigned the value from the
function
depends_on The upstream control that this
control relies on (i.e. upstream
control must execute first)
execute_on 'initial timestep_end' Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment

11.5 Set Real Value

This control [SetRealValueControl] specifies the component and parameter to be controlled, along with

50
the control that returns the value of the parameter.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block control name
type SetRealValueControl Designates control is a set real
value control
component The name of the component to be
controlled.
parameter The name of the parameter in the
component to be controlled.
value The name of the control that
determines the value to be set in
the component.

11.6 Terminate
This control [TerminateControl] terminates the simulation when the ‘output’ value of the parameter
‘threshold’ in a UnitTripContol reaches the specified threshold value.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block control name
type TerminateControl Designates control is a terminate
control
input The name of the UnitTripControl
with the parameter ‘threshold’ and
its value used for simulation
termination.

11.7 Time Function

This control [TimeFunctionControl] specifies for a component and parameter the control of the value of
that parameter using a function that includes time as a variable.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block control name
type TimeFunctionControl Designates control is a time
function control
component Name of the component that will
be controlled
function Name of the function (including
time as a variable) prescribing the
51
 value
parameter Name of the parameter in the
component that will be controlled

11.8 Time Period

This control [TimePeriod] controls the enabled/disabled state of objects with time

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block control name

type TimePeriod Designates control is a time period

control
depends_on The upstream control that this
control relies on (i.e. upstream
control must execute first)
disable_objects A list of objects that are
enabled/disabled when the control
time period starts and ends
end_time The time at which the objects are
disabled
start_time The time at which the objects are
enabled

11.9 Unit Trip

This control [UnitTripControl] specifies the control output value(e.g. post-processor value) that is used
as the input value for comparison to the specified value of the threshold (setpoint) parameter.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block control name
type UnitTripControl Designates control is a unit trip
control
input The name of the control output
value that is compared to the
threshold (setpoint) value.
threshold The threshold (setpoint) value that
will actuate a downstream control

12.0 AUXILIARY KERNELS

The auxiliary kernels [AuxKernels] block includes a variety of sub-blocks that are used to calculate
52
specific quantities of interest using component parameter output values as inputs, along with constants
specified as sub-block inputs. The auxiliary kernel output values can then be used for a variety of
purposes.

Other auxiliary kernels are included in RELAP-7 but are not specified here.

In the following sections the input file parameters for the [AuxKernels] sub-blocks are listed.

12.1 Constant
The constant auxiliary kernel [ConstantAux] sub-block specifies an input numerical value that is assigned
as a component parameter value or a component boundary parameter value in the simulation model.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates auxiliary kernel sub-
block name
type ConstantAux Designates a constant auxiliary
kernel
variable The name of the component
parameter that the constant value
is assigned to. Only one is
allowed.
block The list of component names for
which the parameter is assigned
the constant value
boundary The list of [Inlet] component
names for which the parameter is
assigned the constant value
execute_on linear Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
value 0 The constant value to be assigned
to the specified components.

12.2 Function
The function auxiliary kernel [FunctionAux] sub-block samples a function output value in space and time,
as applicable, and assigns it as a component parameter value or a component boundary parameter
value in the simulation model.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
53
 (Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates auxiliary kernel sub-
block name
type FunctionAux Designates a function auxiliary
kernel
function The function that provides the
input value in space and time
variable The name of the component
parameter that the function output
value is assigned to. Only one is
allowed.
block The list of component names for
which the parameter is assigned
the function output value
boundary The list of component names
([InletXX]) for which the parameter
is assigned the function output
value
execute_on linear Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment

12.3 Mach Number

The Mach number auxiliary kernel [MachNumberAux] calculates the Mach number for a specified
component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates auxiliary kernel sub-
block name
type MachNumberAux Designates a Mach number
auxiliary kernel
e Specific internal energy from the
specified component
fp The name of the fluid properties
model
v Specific volume from the specified
component
variable The parameter name assigned to
the Mach number output value
(e.g. ‘Mach_number_PipeXX’)
vel Fluid velocity from the specified
component

54
 block The list of component names to be
included in the calculation
execute_on linear Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment

12.4 Material Real

The material average property auxiliary kernel [MaterialRealAux] outputs component volume-averaged
material properties.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates auxiliary kernel sub-
block name
type MaterialRealAux Designates a material real auxiliary
kernel
property The material property parameter
name to be averaged
variable The parameter name assigned to
the component average parameter
value (e.g.
‘PipeXX_average_temperature’)
block The list of component names to be
included in the calculation
execute_on linear Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment

12.5 Mixture Quantity

The mixture quantity auxiliary kernel [MixtureQuantityAux] calculates a component mixture quantity
from vectors of independent values (that sum to 1.0) and dependent variable values. An example is a
vector of independent values (liquid void fraction, vapor void fraction), and dependent variables (liquid
density, vapor density).

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates auxiliary kernel sub-
block name
type MixtureQuantityAux Designates a mixture quantity
auxiliary kernel
a Vector of independent parameter
55
 names whose values (decimal
values) sum to 1.0 (e.g. liquid void
fraction, vapor void fraction)
b Vector of dependent parameter
values that correspond to the
vector of independent variable
values (e.g. density of liquid,
density of vapor)
variable The parameter name assigned to
the component mixture parameter
value (e.g.
‘PipeXX_mixed_density’)
block The list of component names to be
included in the calculation
execute_on linear Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment

12.6 Prandtl Number

This auxiliary kernel [PrandtlNumberAux] calculates the Prandtl number for a component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates auxiliary kernel sub-
block name
type PrandtlNumberAux Designates a Prandtl number
auxiliary kernel
e Specific internal energy from the
specified component
fp The name of the fluid properties
model
v Specific volume from the specified
component
variable The parameter name assigned to
the Prandtl number output value
(e.g. ‘Prandtl_number_PipeXX’)
block The list of component names to be
included in the calculation. If none
are specified then all will be
included.
execute_on linear Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment
56
12.7 Reynolds Number
This auxiliary kernel [ReynoldsNumberAux] calculates the Reynolds number for a component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates auxiliary kernel sub-
block name
type ReynoldsNumberAux Designates a Reynolds number
auxiliary kernel
D_h Hydraulic diameter from the
specified component
e Specific internal energy from the
specified component
fp The name of the fluid properties
model
rho Density from the specified
component
v Specific volume from the specified
component
variable The parameter name assigned to
the Reynolds number output value
(e.g. ‘Reynolds_number_PipeXX’)
vel Velocity from the specified
component
alpha 1.0 Liquid void fraction from the
specified component
block The list of component names to be
included in the calculation
execute_on linear Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment

12.8 Sound Speed

The sound speed auxiliary kernel [SoundSpeedAux] calculates the speed of sound as a function of
specific internal energy and specific volume for a component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates auxiliary kernel sub-
block name
type SoundSpeedAux Designates a sound speed auxiliary
57
 kernel
e Specific internal energy from the
specified component
fp The name of the fluid properties
model
v Specific volume from the specified
component
variable The parameter name assigned to
the speed of sound output value
(e.g. ‘Sound_speed_PipeXX’)
block The list of component names to be
included in the calculation
execute_on linear Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment

12.9 Saturation Temperature

The saturation temperature auxiliary kernel [TemperatureSaturationAux] calculates saturation
temperature from pressure for a component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates auxiliary kernel sub-
block name
type TemperatureSaturationAux Designates a saturation
temperature auxiliary kernel
fp The name of the fluid properties
model
p Pressure from the specified
component
variable The parameter name assigned to
the speed of sound output value
(e.g. ‘Tsat_PipeXX’)
block The list of component names to be
included in the calculation
execute_on linear Set to
(nonlinear|linear|timestep_end|ti
mestep_begin|custom) to execute
only at that moment

58
13.0 COMPONENTS

The components [Components] block specifies within sub-blocks the parameters used for each of the
component types used in RELAP-7 simulation models. In RELAP-7 the terminology ‘component’ refers to
a zero, one, or two-dimensional element of a fluid system simulation model. A component can
represent a physical structure such as a pipe, valve, pump, or heat exchanger. A component can also be
a boundary condition such as a pressure sink or a mass flowrate. A network of components is specified
to represent the system being simulated using a three-dimensional mesh.

For each component type most of the parameters are required to fully describe the component,
although the list of parameters can vary significantly depending on the component type. Parameter
values specified generically in the [GlobalParams] block are superseded by specifying component-
specific values.

The input file parameters for each component type are listed in the following sections. Some
component parameters that are not typically used are not included.

13.1 Check Valve

The check valve [CheckValve] component is similar to a junction component in that it connects two 1D
components, such as pipes. The check valve opens when the dynamic pressure difference exceeds an
input value, and then reseats by one of three input values indicating reverse flow, or the static or
dynamic differential pressure reversal. Forward and reverse loss coefficients and a reference area are
inputs. The valve open/close response time is also an input.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type CheckValve Designates component is a check
valve
A_ref Area

back_pressure Dynamic Δp for the valve to open

center Geometric center position (x, y, z)

initial_status OPEN Initial status – either ‘OPEN’ or

CLOSE ‘CLOSE’ (i.e. closed)
inputs Name of the 1D component at the
inlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))
K Forward flow form loss coefficients
at the inlet and at the outlet
outputs Name of the 1D component at the
59
 outlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(in))
response_time Response time to open or close

volume Volume

check_valve_type FLOW Check valve type: ‘FLOW’ (close by

STATIC flow reversal); ‘STATIC’ (close by
DYNAMIC static Δp); ‘DYNAMIC’ (close by
dynamic Δp)
initial_T 300 Initial temperature

initial_alpha_vapor 1 Initial vapor volume fraction

initial_p 100000 Initial pressure

initial_vel 0 Initial velocity

K_reverse Reverse flow form loss coefficients

at the inlet and at the outlet

13.2 Compressible Valve

The compressible valve [CompressibleValve] component is used to model relief and safety valves. It is
similar to a junction component in that it connects two 1D components, such as pipes. Typically the
compressible valve opens when the dynamic Δp exceeds an input value, and then reseats when the Δp
decreases to less than an input value. As an alternative the valve can open based on inlet pressure.
Forward and reverse loss coefficients and a reference area are inputs. The valve open/close response
time is also an input. Currently the compressible valve component is restricted to vapor flow.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type CompressibleValve Designates component is a
compressible valve
A_ref Area

center Geometric center position (x, y, z)

initial_status CLOSE Initial status of the valve (‘OPEN’ or

‘CLOSE’ (i.e. closed))
inputs Name of the 1D component at the
inlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))
is_actuated_by_physics This parameter is under
development so specify ‘false’

60
 is_actuated_by_pressure_diff ‘true’ if the valve is actuated by Δp;
erence ‘false’ if actuation is by inlet
pressure
K Forward flow form loss coefficients
at the inlet and at the outlet
outputs Name of the 1D component at the
outlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(in))
response_time_close Response time to close

response_time_open Response time to open

volume Volume

delta_p_close 1e+100 Minimum Δp to close

delta_p_open 1e+100 Minimum Δp to open

initial_T 300 Initial temperature

initial_alpha_vapor 1 Initial vapor volume fraction

initial_p 100000 Initial pressure

initial_vel 0 Initial velocity

K_reverse Reverse flow form loss coefficients

at the inlet and at the outlet
valve_action NO_ACTION Valve control action, either ‘OPEN’
or ‘CLOSE’ (i.e. closed), or
‘NO_ACTION’

13.3 Core Channel

The core channel [CoreChannel] component is a composite component that models the coolant flow in
the reactor and the heat conduction in the fuel heat structure. The heat transfer between the fuel rods
and the coolant is fully coupled, and the axial mesh must be consistent. The fuel heat structure can be
either cylindrical fuel rods or plates, and can be either 1D or 2D. The fuel rods include the capability to
model the fuel, the fuel-to-cladding gap, and the cladding, with include a variable mesh in the solid
materials. The materials are provided by the [HeatStructureMaterials] block. The power input is
provided from the [PointKinetics] component, or the [PrescribedReactorPower] component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name

61
type CoreChannel Designates component is a core
channel
A Area of coolant channel

elem_number_of_hs Number of cells in each heat

structure material. For fuel rod this
is from centerline to surface of fuel
pellet, ID of cladding, and OD of
cladding. For a plate this is from
left surface to right surface.
fuel_type ‘cylinder’ for fuel rod, or ‘plate’

length Total length along the main axis

material_hs Name of each of the materials used

in the heat structures (centerline to
surface for cylinder; left to right for
plate)
n_elems Number of cells along the main axis

n_heatstruct Number of heat structure materials

name_of_hs User specified names of each heat

structure
orientation Orientation vector (x, y, z)

P_hf Heat structure heated perimeter

position Origin (x, y, z)

width_of_hs Width of each heat structure

D_h Hydraulic diameter of the coolant

channel
Hw Optional user-specified single-
phase convective heat transfer
coefficient. Normally this is not
specified and the closures (boiling
curve) are used.
Hw_liquid Optional user-specified liquid-
phase convective heat transfer
coefficient. Normally this is not
specified and the closures (boiling
curve) are used.
Hw_vapor Optional user-specified vapor-
phase convective heat transfer

62
 coefficient. Normally this is not
specified and the closures (boiling
curve) are used.
PoD 1 Pitch to diameter ratio for fuel rod
lattice
depth Thickness of plate fuel

dim_hs 2 Dimension of the mesh used for

the heat structure ‘2 ‘ = 2D; ‘1” =
1D
f Friction factor for the outer surface
of the heat structure
f_interface 0 Interface (interphase) friction
between liquid and vapor. A user-
specified value will replace the
value provided by the closure.
fp Name of fluid properties

fuel_type PLATE ‘cylinder’ or ‘plate’

heat_transfer_geom ROD_BUNDLE Convective heat transfer based on

a ‘pipe’ or ‘rod bundle’
initial_T Initial fluid temperature for single-
phase
initial_T_liquid Initial fluid temperature for the
liquid phase
initial_T_vapor Initial fluid temperature for the
vapor phase
initial_Ts Initial temperature for each
material
initial_alpha_vapor Initial vapor volume fraction

initial_p Initial pressure in the pipe

initial_p_liquid Initial pressure for the liquid phase

initial_p_vapor Initial pressure for the vapor phase

initial_vel Initial velocity for single-phase

initial_vel_liquid Initial velocity for the liquid phase

initial_vel_vapor Initial velocity for the vapor phase

mesh_disp_gap 0.02 Heat structure mesh offset for post-

processing visualization
63
 n_elems_hs Number of cells in the heat
structure along the main axis. If
none provided it will default to
'n_elems'
n_rods Number of rods

offset '0 0 0' Offset of the origin for post-

processing visualization
power Name of the component that
provides the reactor power
boundary condition
power_fraction Fraction of reactor power that is
deposited into each material
power_shape_function A numerical value is applied as an
axial power multiplier (‘1’ is an
constant axial power peaking
factor). A value corresponding to a
function name can return an axial
power shape, and/or a fuel
material region radial power shape,
either as linear functions (constant
in time), or as bi-linear functions of
time
roughness 0 Roughness of the outer surface of
the heat structure

13.4 Downcomer
The BWR downcomer [Downcomer] component connects the feedwater pipe, the separator dryer
discharge, the steam dome, and the downcomer outlet. The downcomer is separated into a vapor
region above the mixture level, and a liquid region below the mixture level. During a transient the
mixture level is tracked. The vapor pressure is the steam dome pressure. The downcomer component
is a junction component with volume.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type DownComer Designates component is a BWR
downcomer
A_ref Area

K Forward flow form loss coefficients

at the inlet and at the outlet
center Geometric center position (x, y, z)

64
 dome_component Steam dome component name to
provide the vapor pressure
initial_level Initial iquid level

inputs Feedwater pipe component outlet

outputs Lower plenum component inlet

volume Volume

initial_T 300 Initial temperature

initial_alpha_vapor 1 Initial vapor volume fraction

initial_p 100000 Initial pressure

initial_vel 0 Initial velocity

K_reverse Reverse flow form loss coefficients

at the inlet and at the outlet

13.5 Elbow Pipe

The elbow pipe [ElbowPipe] component is a pipe component that includes a bend with a radius and an
angle.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type ElbowPipe Designates component is an elbow
pipe
A Area

end_angle Angle at which the curvature of the

pipe ends
fp Name of fluid properties

n_elems The number of cells along the main

axis
orientation Orientation vector (x, y, z)

position Origin (x, y, z)

radius Radius of the curvature to the

centerline of the pipe
65
start_angle Angle at which the curvature of the
pipe starts
D_h Hydraulic diameter

f Wall friction

f_2phase_mult_liquid Two-phase friction multiplier for

liquid phase
f_2phase_mult_vapor Two-phase friction multiplier for
vapor phase
f_interface Interface (interphase) friction

heat_transfer_geom PIPE Convective heat transfer based on a

pipe
Hw Optional user-specified single-phase
convective heat transfer coefficient.
Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
Hw_liquid Optional user-specified liquid-phase
convective heat transfer coefficient.
Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
Hw_vapor Optional user-specified vapor-phase
convective heat transfer coefficient.
Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
initial_T Initial temperature

initial_T_liquid Initial temperature for the liquid

phase
initial_T_vapor Initial temperature in for the vapor
phase
initial_alpha_vapor Initial vapor volume fraction

initial_p Initial pressure for single-phase

initial_p_liquid Initial pressure for the liquid phase

initial_p_vapor Initial pressure for the vapor phase

initial_vel Initial velocity for single-phase

initial_vel_liquid Initial velocity for the liquid phase

66
 initial_vel_vapor Initial velocity for the vapor phase

K_2phase_mult_liquid Two-phase form loss multiplier for

liquid
K_2phase_mult_vapor Two-phase form loss multiplier for
vapor
K_prime Form loss coefficient per unit length
that is used for flow in both
directions
P_hf Heat flux perimeter

offset '0 0 0' Offset of the origin for post-

processing visualization
q_wall User-spedified wall heat flux.
Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
roughness 0 Roughness

13.6 Free Boundary

The free boundary [FreeBoundary] component provides a null boundary condition used for 1D
components that must be connected to components at both ends.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type FreeBoundary Designates a free boundary
component
input Name of the component connected
to the free boundary component

13.7 Heat Exchanger Connector

The heat exchanger connector [HXConnector] component connects the heat exchanger to the heat
structure component and to the pipe component. It also specifies which side of the heat structure the
heat exchanger is connected to.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name

67
 type HXConnector Designates component is a heat
exchanger connector
hs The name of the heat structure
component
hs_side The side of the heat structure

pipe The name of the pipe component

13.8 Heat Generation

The heat generation [HeatGeneration] component specifies the component and the material region that
heat is generated in, and how that heat is distributed, from a power source originating in a separate
component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description.
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type HeatGeneration Designates a heat generation
component
block Name of the heat structure material
region in the component with heat
generation
hs Name of the heat structure
component with heat generation
power Name of the component that
provides power
power_fraction 1 Fraction of power that is deposited
into each material region
power_shape_function A numerical value is applied as an
axial power multiplier (‘1’ is an
constant axial power peaking
factor). A value corresponding to a
function name can return an axial
power shape, and/or a fuel material
region radial power shape, either as
linear functions (constant in time),
or as bi-linear functions of time

13.9 Heat Structure

The heat structure (HeatStructure] component models a solid material that conducts energy within the
solid, and that convects energy into the adjacent pipe components. The heat structure can be either 1D
or 2D, and either a cylinder or plate. It can be a composite of several materials, and can be divided into
a mesh.
68
 Input File Parameters Parameter Values
Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type HeatStructure Designates component is a heat
structure
hs_type plate ‘cylinder’ or ‘plate’

length Lengths along the main axis

materials Material names used in the heat

structures
n_elems Number of cells along the main axis

n_part_elems Number of cells in each material.

For a cylinder from the centerline
to the surface of each region. For a
plate from the left side to the right
side.
names User-specified heat structure
region names (e.g. ‘fuel’, ‘cladding’)
orientation Orientation vector (x, y, z)

position Origin (x, y, z)

widths Width of each heat structure. For a

cylinder from the centerline to the
surface of each region. For a plate
from the left side to the right side.
axial_offset 0 Radial distance of the gap at the
interior of an annular fuel cylinder.
Not applicable for plates.
depth Thickness of plate

dim 2 Dimension of the mesh used for

the heat structure ‘2 ‘ = 2D; ‘1” =
1D
initial_T Initial temperature

num_rods 1 Number of rods represented by

this heat structure. Used as a
multiplier on dimensional inputs.
offset '0 0 0' Offset of the origin for post-
processing visualization

69
13.10 Ideal Pump
The ideal pump [IdealPump] component is a junction component that provides a mass flow rate
boundary condition between two pipe components.

Input File Parameter Values

Parameters
(Note: Defaults are bolded) Description
(Note: Required are
bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type IdealPump Designates component is an ideal
pump
fp Name of fluid properties

inputs Name of the 1D component at the

inlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))
mass_flow_rate Mass flow rate boundary condition

outputs Name of the 1D component at the

outlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(in))

13.11 Inlet
The inlet [Inlet] component provides a flow boundary condition to the inlet of a pipe component.
Various combinations of parameters options are available to specify the fluid state. Selection of the
parameter combinations need to avoid over-specification.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type Inlet Designates component is an inlet

input Name of the 1D component

receiving the flow (e.g. ‘PipeXX(in))
H Enthalpy for single-phase

H_liquid Enthalpy for the liquid phase

H_vapor Enthalpy for the vapor phase

T0 Stagnation temperature for single-

phase
T0_liquid Stagnation temperature for the
liquid phase
70
T0_vapor Stagnation temperature for the
vapor phase
T_liquid Temperature of the liquid phase

T_vapor Temperature of the vapor phase

alpha_vapor Vapor volume fraction

m_dot Mass flow rate for single-phase

m_dot_liquid Mass flow rate of the liquid phase

m_dot_vapor Mass flow rate of the vapor phase

p Pressure

p0 Stagnation pressure for single-

phase
p0_liquid Stagnation pressure for the liquid
phase
p0_vapor Stagnation pressure for the vapor
phase
p_liquid Pressure for the liquid phase

p_vapor Pressure for the vapor phase

reversible false ‘false’ for boundary conditions that

provide a fluid mass flow type of
boundary condition. ‘true’ for
boundary conditions that are
similar to an outlet component,
such as a pressure sink.
rho Density for single-phase

rho_liquid Density of the liquid phase

rho_vapor Density of the vapor phase

rhou Momentum for single-phase

rhou_liquid Momentum for the liquid phase

rhou_vapor Momentum for the vapor phase

vel Velocity for single-phase

71
 vel_liquid Velocity of the liquid phase

vel_vapor Velocity of the vapor phase

13.12 Junction
The junction [Junction] component can connect multiple pipes at the inlet and outlet but is restricted to
single-phase fluids.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type Junction Designates component is a junction

initial_T Initial temperature

initial_p Initial pressure

inputs Names of the 1D components at

the inlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))
outputs Names of the 1D components at
the outlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(in))
K Form loss coefficients at the
outlets. If loss coefficients are
different for forward and reverse
flow, then use the volume junction
component.

13.13 Outlet
The outlet [Outlet] component provides a backpressure boundary condition to the outlet of a pipe
component. An example would be a pressure sink for a relief valve. There is an option for a reversible
outlet with flow at the outlet conditions from the outlet component into the pipe component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type Outlet Designates component is an outlet

input Name of the 1D component at the

inlet that is connected to the
72
 backpressure boundary condition
(e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))
p Pressure for single-phase

p_liquid Pressure for the liquid phase

p_vapor Pressure for the vapor phase

reversible false ‘true’ for a reversible outlet

boundary condition

13.14 Pipe
The pipe [Pipe] component is the fundamental 1D component for modeling a volume of fluid in space. A
pipe component connects to only one other 1D component at each end of the pipe via one of several
junction components.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type Pipe Designates component is a pipe

A Area can be a constant, or variable

along the length of the pipe using a
function sub-block
fp Name of fluid properties

length Total length along the main axis

n_elems Number of cells along the main axis

orientation Orientation vector (x, y, z)

position Origin (x, y, z)

D_h Hydraulic diameter

Hw Optional user-specified single-phase

convective heat transfer coefficient.
Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
Hw_liquid Optional user-specified liquid-phase
convective heat transfer coefficient.
Normally this is not specified and
73
 the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
Hw_vapor Optional user-specified vapor-phase
convective heat transfer coefficient.
Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
K_2phase_mult_liquid Two-phase form loss multiplier for
liquid
K_2phase_mult_vapor Two-phase form loss multiplier for
vapor
K_prime Form loss coefficient per unit length
applicable for both forward and
reverse flow
P_hf Heat structure heated perimeter

PoD 1 Pitch to diameter ratio for fuel rod

lattice
T_wall Wall temperature

f Wall friction

f_2phase_mult_liquid Two-phase friction multiplier for

liquid phase
f_2phase_mult_vapor Two-phase friction multiplier for
vapor phase
f_interface Interface (interphase) friction
between liquid and vapor. A user-
specified value will replace the value
provided by the closure.
heat_transfer_geom PIPE Convective heat transfer based on a
pipe
initial_T Initial fluid temperature for single-
phase
initial_T_liquid Initial fluid temperature for the
liquid phase
initial_T_vapor Initial fluid temperature for the
vapor phase
initial_alpha_vapor Initial vapor volume fraction

initial_p Initial pressure for single-phase

initial_p_liquid Initial pressure for the liquid phase

initial_p_vapor Initial pressure for the vapor phase

74
 initial_vel Initial velocity for single-phase

initial_vel_liquid Initial velocity for the liquid phase

initial_vel_vapor Initial velocity for the vapor phase

offset '0 0 0' Offset of the origin for post-

processing visualization
q_wall User-spedified wall heat flux.
Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
roughness 0 Roughness

13.15 Pipe With Heat Structure

The pipe with heat structure [PipeWithHeatStructure] component is the pipe component with a heat
structure attached. The parameters are a combination of the parameters used for the pipe and heat
structure components, with the same limitations.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type PipeWithHeatStructure Designates component is a pipe with
heat structure
A Area can be a constant, or variable
along the length of the pipe using a
function sub-block
elem_number_of_hs Number of heat structure cells along
the main axis
fp Name of fluid properties

HS_BC_type adiabatic Heat structure surface boundary

condition type. 1) ‘adiabatic’; 2)
‘constant_temperature’ (uses
parameter ‘T’), 3) convective (uses
parameters ‘h_amb’ and ‘T_amb’)
hs_type PLATE ‘cylinder’ or ‘plate’

initial_Ts Initial heat structure temperature

length Length of the pipe along the main

axis
material_hs Material names used in the heat
75
 structure
n_elems Number of fluid cells along the main
axis
orientation Orientation vector (x, y, z)

position Origin of the pipe (x ,y ,z)

radius_i The inner radius of the pipe wall

width_of_hs Thickness of the heat structure

D_h Hydraulic diameter

dim_hs 2 Dimension of the mesh used for the

heat structure ‘2 ‘ = 2D; ‘1” = 1D
f Wall friction for single-phase
f_2phase_mult_liquid Two-phase friction multiplier for
liquid
f_2phase_mult_vapor Two-phase friction multiplier for
liquid
f_interface Interface (inter-phase) friction

h_amb 0.01 Convective heat transfer coefficient

from outer surface to ambient.
Used for ‘HS_BC_type’ =
‘convective’.
heat_source_liquid Volumetric heat source in liquid

heat_source_solid 0 Volumetric heat source in solid

heat_transfer_geom PIPE Convective heat transfer based on a

pipe
Hw Optional user-specified single-phase
convective heat transfer coefficient.
Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
Hw_liquid Optional user-specified liquid-phase
convective heat transfer coefficient.
Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
Hw_vapor Optional user-specified vapor-phase
convective heat transfer coefficient.
Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are

76
 used.
initial_T Initial temperature for single-phase

initial_T_liquid Initial temperature for the liquid

phase
initial_T_vapor Initial temperature for the vapor
phase
initial_alpha_vapor Initial vapor volume fraction

initial_p Initial pressure for single-phase

initial_p_liquid Initial pressure for the liquid phase

initial_p_vapor Initial pressure for the vapor phase

initial_vel Initial velocity for single-phase

initial_vel_liquid Initial velocity for the liquid phase

initial_vel_vapor Initial velocity for the vapor phase

K_2phase_mult_liquid Two-phase form loss multiplier for

liquid
K_2phase_mult_vapor Two-phase form loss multiplier for
vapor
K_prime Form loss coefficient per unit length
applicable for both forward and
reverse flow
offset '0 0 0' Offset of the origin for post-
processing visualization
P_hf Heat flux perimeter

q_wall User-spedified wall heat flux.

Normally this is not specified and
the closures (boiling curve) are
used.
roughness 0 Roughness

T 600 Fixed ambient temperature

boundary condition. Used for
‘HS_BC_type’ = ‘convective’.
T_amb 300 Ambient temperature

T_wall Wall temperature

77
13.16 Point Kinetics
The point kinetics [PointKinetics] component solves the point kinetics equations to determine the
change in reactor power. Moderator density or temperature reactivity feedback, and fuel temperature
(Doppler) reactivity feedback are included via the [ReactivityFeedback] component. An additional
reactivity component, such as control rod reactivity as a function of time can be included.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type PointKinetics Designates a point kinetics
component
initial_power Initial reactor power

ANS_standard 2005 The year of the ANSI/ANS 5.1 decay

heat standard. Options include
1979, 1994, and 2005.
F_U239 1 U-239 atoms produced by neutron
capture in U-238 per fission
F_alpha '0.97 0.03 0 0' Fraction of fissions from U-235, U-
238, and Pu-239 for 1979 ANS
standard; Fractions of fissions from
U-235, U-238, Pu-239, and Pu-241
for 1994 and 2005 ANS standards
F_gamma 1 Multiplier on reactor power

Q 200 Total energy in MeV generated per

fission
beta_over_lambda 200 Delayed neutron fraction divided by
prompt neutron lifetime
eta_Np239 0.419 Np-239 decay energy in MeV. The
default is from the ANS standard.
eta_U239 0.474 U-239 decay energy in MeV. The
default is from the ANS standard
f_i '0.038 0.213 0.188 0.407 Fraction of delayed neutrons per
0.128 0.026' group. Default values are for
Groups 1 to 6 in six-group model.
feedback_components User-specified name of the
reactivity feedback component
feedback_reactivity 0 Fuel (Doppler) and moderator
density reactivity feedback
fission_per_fissile 1 Number of fissions per fissile atom

lam_Np239 3.41e-06 Np-239 decay constant

78
 lam_U239 0.000491 U-239 decay constant

lambda '0.0127 0.0317 0.115 0.311 Decay constants for delayed

1.4 3.87' neutron groups. Default values are
for Groups 1 to 6 in six-group
model.
num_eq_FP 23 Number of fission product
equations. The default is from the
ANS standard.
num_eq_isotope 4 Number of isotopes tracked. The
default value of ‘4’ is for the ANS
1994 and 2005 standards. The1979
ANS standard uses a value of ‘3’.
num_eq_precursor 6 Number of delayed neutron
precursor equations. The default
value ‘6’ is for the common form of
the point kinetics equation.
operating_time 52 Reactor operating time before
shutdown in weeks
reactivity_func Name of the function that can be
used to include a reactivity vs. time
component of the total reactivity.
An example would be reactivity due
to control rod insertion as a function
of time.
rho 0 The initial reactivity. For a steady-
state reactor the default value of ‘0’
is applicable.

13.17 Prescribed Reactor Power

The prescribed reactor power [PrescribedReactorPower] component provides a constand value of
reactor power, or a function name that returns the reactor power as a function of time.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type PrescribedReactorPower Designates a prescribed reactor
power component
function A constant numerical value, or a
user-specified function name that
returns the reactor power as a
function of time.

79
13.18 Pump
The pump [Pump] component is a junction that increases the pressure (head) by a user-specified value,
or by connection to a turbine component that provides shaft work.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type Pump Designates component is a pump

A_ref Area

fp Name of fluid properties

initial_p Initial pressure

inputs Names of the 1D components at the

inlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))
K_reverse Reverse flow form loss coefficients
at the inlet and at the outlet
outputs Names of the 1D components at the
outlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(in))
driving_component Turbine component name to
provide shaft work
head 0 User-specified constant value of
pump head

13.19 Reactivity Feedback

The reactivity feedback [ReactivityFeedback] component calculates the reactivity feedback due to a
change in moderator density (using a table of pairs of values) or using a moderator temperature
coefficient of reactivity, and due to a change in the fuel temperature (using a table of pairs of values) or
using a fuel temperature (Doppler) coefficient of reactivity. The resulting change in reactivity is then
used in the point kinetics component.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type ReactivityFeedback Designates a reactivity feedback
component
core_channel User-specified name of the core
channel component that provides
the moderator density and
temperature
80
fuel_block In the core channel component, the
user-specified name of the heat
structure material region (e.g. ‘fuel’)
that provides the fuel temperature
fuel_temperature Fuel material temperatures (axial
cell average values) used as the
independent parameter in a table of
fuel temperature reactivity
fuel_reactivity Fuel temperature (Doppler)
reactivity values from a table of fuel
temperature reactivity
fuel_temp_coefficient Fuel temperature (Doppler)
coefficient of reactivity (constant
value) that is multiplied by a
volumetric average fuel
temperature to obtain the change in
reactivity.
fuel_weighting_factor Weighting factors applied to each
axial cell of the fuel material from
bottom to top, and applied to the
table of fuel temperature reactivity
vs. fuel temperature. Normally
these sum to 1.0.
mod_density Moderator (coolant channel)
densities (axial cell average values)
used as the independent parameter
in a table of moderator density
reactivity
mod_reactivity Moderator (coolant channel)
density reactivity values from a
table of moderator (coolant
channel) density reactivity
mod_temp_coefficient Moderator (coolant channel)
temperature coefficient of reactivity
(constant value) that is multiplied by
a volumetric average moderator
(coolant channel) temperature to
obtain the change in reactivity.
mod_weighting_factor Weighting factors applied to each
axial cell of the moderator (coolant
channel) from bottom to top, and
applied to the table of moderator
density reactivity vs. moderator
density. Normally these sum to 1.0.

81
13.20 Simple Junction
The simple junction [SimpleJunction] component is a junction that is only applicable when the two
connecting pipes have the same area. This is the only junction that currently can model two-phase flow.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type SimpleJunction Designates component is a simple
junction
inputs Name of the 1D component at the
inlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))
outputs Name of the 1D component at the
outlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(in))

13.21 Solid Wall

The solid wall [SolidWall] component is a junction used as the boundary condition for a dead-ended pipe
component. Therefore there is no flow circulating through the pipe, however the mass in the pipe can
change due to coolant expansion or contraction.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type SolidWall Designates component is a solid
wall
input Name of the 1D component at the
inlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))

13.22 Turbine
The turbine [Turbine] component is a simplified turbine junction component applicable to a Terry
turbine, and not for a large power generation turbine.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type Turbine Designates component is a turbine

fp Name of fluid properties

initial_T Initial temperature

82
 initial_p Initial pressure

inputs Name of the 1D component at the

inlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))
max_mass_flow_rate Nominal maximum mass flow rate

outputs Name of the 1D component at the

outlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(in))
p0_design Nominal design inlet stagnation
pressure
pressure_ratio_design Ratio of pressures at inlet and
outlet for design conditions
T0_design Nominal design inlet stagnation
temperature
turbine_efficiency Turbine thermal efficiency

13.23 Valve
The valve [Valve] component is a junction component connecting two pipe components that opens or
closes at a specified time with a specified stroke time.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type Valve Designates component is a valve

A_ref Area

center Geometric center position (x, y, z)

initial_status OPEN Initial position of the valve ‘open’ or

‘close’ (closed)
inputs Name of the 1D component at the
inlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))
K Forward flow form loss coefficients
at the inlet and at the outlet
outputs Name of the 1D component at the
outlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(in))
response_time Valve stroke time

trigger_time Simulation time the valve is

actuated to change position
volume Volume
83
 K_reverse Reverse flow form loss coefficients
at the inlet and at the outlet
initial_T 300 Initial temperature

initial_alpha_vapor 1 Initial vapor volume fraction

initial_p 100000 Initial pressure

initial_vel 0 Initial velocity

13.24 Volume Junction

The volume junction [VolumeJunction] component is a junction component with volume with a unique
capability to connect multiple pipe components, which is necessary when flow streams are split or
merged. The current model is limited to single-phase conditions. Typical applications would be to
model a plenum or a header.

Input File Parameters Parameter Values

Description
(Note: Required are bolded) (Note: Defaults are bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component
name
type VolumeJunction Designates component is a volume
junction
A_ref Reference area

center Geometric center (x, y, z)

inputs Names of the 1D components at the

inlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(out))
K Forward flow form loss coefficients
at the inlets and at the outlets
outputs Names of the 1D components at the
outlet (e.g. ‘PipeXX(in))
volume Volume

K_reverse Reverse flow form loss coefficients

at the inlets and at the outlets
initial_T 300 Initial temperature

initial_alpha_vapor 1 Initial vapor volume fraction

initial_p 100000 Initial pressure

84
13.25 Wet Well
The wet well [WetWell] component is a simplified junction component with a specified gas (e.g. air or
nitrogen) over a liquid water pool in a rectangular (cubic) volume representation. The major design
features of a BWR wet well suppression pool are included. An example application is to condense the
exhaust steam from a Terry turbine. The model is not suitable for large steam flowrates such as a LOCA
blowdown.

Parameter Values
Input File Parameters
Description
(Note: Defaults are
(Note: Required are bolded)
bolded)
[./name] Unique name Designates sub-block component name

type WetWell Designates component is a BWR wet well

Ac Average cross sectional area

alpha_s Effective heat transfer coefficient for the

gas to water pool interfacial area
cooling_rate Heat removal rate boundary condition
from an immersed heat exchanger
fp_nc_gas Name of fluid properties for the non-
condensible gas
fp_vapor Name of fluid properties for vapor

fp_water Name of fluid properties for water

initial_Lw Initial water level

initial_T Initial gas and water temperature

initial_p_gas Initial gas pressure

inputs Steam sources to the wet well (e.g.

turbine exhaust steam)
Lt Total effective height of the wet well

outputs Dry well that is connected to gas venting

line (e.g. an outlet component)
z_in Inlet steam pipe discharge elevation
above the pool bottom
z_out Outlet water pipe inlet elevation above
the pool bottom
K_i 1 Forward flow form loss coefficient for
steam inlet pipe
K_ir 0.5 Reverse flow form loss coefficient for
85
 steam inlet pipe
K_o 0.5 Forward flow form loss coefficient for
water outlet pipe
K_or 0.5 Reverse flow form loss coefficient for
water outlet pipe
K_v 0.5 Forward flow form loss coefficient for gas
venting line to dry well
K_vr 1 Reverse flow form loss coefficient for gas
venting line to drywell
number_of_steam_lines 1 Number of steam injection lines

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