Optimization design of the reactor coolant pump flywheel comprised of multi-ring packing heavy metal alloy

Abstract

Abstract To improve energy storage performance of the multi-ring RCP flywheel comprised of inner hub, tungsten alloy ring and outer retainer, optimization design process for the radial thicknesses of components and interference fit assembly is demonstrated. Radial thicknesses of these components and magnitude of interference fit are set as design parameters to construct parametric analysis model. Design of experiments (DOE) technique is adopted to generate design matrix for sensitive analysis. Subsequently, radial basis function (RBF) approximation is employed to search for the optimal design considering structural integrity requirement. Finally, a proper range of the magnitude of interference fit is obtained which can not only prevent neither slippage nor separation between the inner hub and tungsten alloy ring but also ensure the safety of structural strength. In addition, it is found that to ensure a high moment of inertia and energy density, a reasonable large radial thickness of tungsten alloy ring and a reasonable small radial thickness of outer retainer are required.