34606 - Numerical Methods for Energetics (Graduate Course)

Learning outcomes

The aim of the course is to describe the numerical techniques and the computational instruments of importance in the field of energy engineering with particular reference to the solutions of: computational thermofluid-dynamics problems, neutronics of nuclear reactors.

Course contents

Energy multigroup neutron diffusion theory in source problems and in pseudo-stationary eigenvalue problems:

-nuclear reactor theory backgrounds with particular bias on the nuclear fule cycle, start-up procedures in nuclear reators, nuclear fuel change during reactor life, control of nuclear reactors;

- monokinetic-monodimensional neutron diffusion problems with external source;

- monokinetci-two dimensional neurton diffusion problems with external source;

- discretization techniques;

- physical and geomterical eigenvalues in the pseudo-stationary multigroup diffusion theory;

- physical/computational meaning of neutron generation in pseudo-stationary diffusion problems; 

- non-linear eigenvalue problems for the solution of neutron balance equations;

Solution of non linear equations and systems of non linear equations with iterative linearization techniques.

Orthogonal polynomials and their use in numerical simulations,

Numerical solution of integrals with gaussian quadrature formulas.

Numerical solutions of Fredholm integral equations of the second kind.

Coarse-mesh methods for the solution of multigroup diffusion equations in 3D systems with and without external sources.

Readings/Bibliography

Copies of the material used during lectures will be given to the students. Use of interactive platforms (SLACK, AMSCampus) for the exchange of didactic materials and discussion with the teacher

Teaching methods

Lectures with overhead projector and blackboard.

Assessment methods

Examination procedures: written test on a choice of main topics described during the lectures. The final mark will be a weighted average over the number of CFU.

Teaching tools

Lectures with overhead projector and blackboard.

Office hours

See the website of Vittorio Colombo

See the website of Emanuele Ghedini