b'4.2 I-LOOP PROJECTExpand Access and Capability to the Advanced Test Reactor (ATR) Medium I with a Flowing Water LoopPrincipal Investigator: Thomas MaddockTeam Members/ Collaborators: Nate OldhamThis research allowsT he I-loop project expandsthe flowing water loop the refur-access and capability to thebishment of the 1A cubicle will be advanced fuelAdvanced Test Reactor (ATR)required including new pumps, qualification and amedium I with a flowing water loop,piping, heat exchangers, and other pressurized water loopallowing testing of fuels and mate- equipment. In order to provide the in the ATR reactor. rials in prototypic conditions.neutronics to approximate prototypic Project Description LWR nuclear grade Zr-2.5NB will be The closure of the Halden Boilingused for the experiment tubes. The Water Reactor (HBWR) and growingimprovements will enable advanced demand for extending light waterfuel qualification to continue at the reactor (LWR) fuel performanceIdaho National Laboratory (INL), and limits, has created urgency to find asupport the industry and DOE desire testing solution to support near-termfor these capabilities in the United fuel testing needs. This need comesStates, to support the continued safe at a time when industry, via Electricuse of existing LWR reactors, and Power Research Institute (EPRI), andprovide for future fuel testing for the Department of Energy (DOE),next generation reactors.via the Accident Tolerant Fuels (ATF)AccomplishmentsProgram, are pushing for perfor- The program went through mance and capability increases formultiple funding determinations new fuels. The I-loop project aimsto determine its status as a capital to fill the gap created by HBWRsasset project. Necessary paperwork, closure and provide a similar capa- project execution plan, schedule and bility at ATR, by installing a flowingbudgets were developed to support water loop in one medium-I positionthis determination.and providing access to the other medium-I positions for future exper-iments. In order to provide better access to the I-positions of ATR, a new Top Head Closure Plate (Mark II) has been designed, expanding the capabilities of the ATR for continued fuel and materials testing. To support 150 2020|AFC ACCOMPLISHMENTS'