03-Reactor-Basics

01 Introduction

In this episode we will describe the basic features and characteristics of reactors together with descriptions of the most widely used commercial reactor types.

03 Fast Versus Slow Reactors

04 Slow Neutron Reactors

06 Fast Neutron Reactors

08 Reactor Moderators

10 Light Water

11 Heavy Water

13 Graphite

14 Unmoderated

15 Coolants

16 Common Coolants

17 Alternative Coolants

18 Primary and Secondary Coolant Loops

20 Steam Generation

23 Brayton Cycle Gas Turbines

24 Refuelling Method

25 Main Commercial Reactor Types

26 PWR - Pressurized Water Reactor

28 BWR - Boiling Water Reactor

29 PHWR - Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor

33 Conclusion

We have covered the main reactor characteristics. 

These characteristics can be mixed in various ways to give different reactor types.

The characteristics also affect the types of fuel that can be used.

We also covered the three main commercial power generation reactor types.

In the next episode we will describe some of the less common historical reactor types.