Experimental study of ISHTAR thermostatic irradiation device for the MARIA research reactor

Materials and core components for the next generation power reactors technologies require testing that can be performed in existing research reactors. Such experiments employ devices dedicated to reflect relevant thermal neutron parameters simulating conditions present in, example, but not limited to, HTGR A novel thermostatic irradiation device named ISHTAR (Irradiation System High-Temperature Reactors) has been designed constructed MARIA reactor. Its mission is enable of samples controlled, homogeneous temperature field reaching 1000°C inert gas atmosphere. The high achieved by a combination electric gamma heating, together with carefully insulation. Additionally, holder made graphite conductivity enables homogenization all directions. Device will placed inside Beryllium matrix cooled forced circulation water from reactor pool loop. This paper presents outcome conducted rig prototype external hydraulic mock-up channel. results have proved desired were their comparison against computational data shown adequacy design process. Finally, loss flow scenario was tested protected unprotected (meaning without safety system based on feedback), proving operational design. Experimental used future validate numerical models (two three dimensional) rig, providing an improved understanding free convection radiation phenomena modeling.