Why Thermal Hydraulics? Why THD?

Nuclear reactor thermal hydraulics refers to the study of fluid flow, heat and mass transfer applied to nuclear technologies. It is a discipline of fundamental importance in both design and safety analysis of nuclear reactors. The Thermal Hydraulic Division of ANS seeks to establish, stimulate, and maintain quality technical and professional approaches in all areas of nuclear thermal hydraulics. To this end, THD hosts a vibrant program that includes the largest international conference in the field (the NURETH conference series).

Research in thermal hydraulics in the United States is highly multi-disciplinary. Researchers apply advanced computational and experimental techniques to study complex phenomena In reactor systems and answer fundamental questions on flow and heat transfer physics. This research is of increasing importance as the nation seeks to develop and deploy advanced reactors, as these designs typically have several thermal hydraulics challenges.

This webinar gave a select overview of thermal hydraulic research in the United States and the role THD has in promoting the exchange of ideas and recognizing excellence in the field.

Panelists

• Guillaume Mignot, Oregon State University
• Dillon Shaver, Argonne National Laboratory
• Kevin Robb, Oak Ridge National Laboratory
• Rodolfo Vaghetto, Texas A&M University
• Elia Merzari, Pennsylvania State University

Moderators

• Marilyn Delgado, BWX Technologies, Inc.
• Lane Carasik, Virginia Commonwealth University