Analytic Function Expansion Nodal (AFEN) Method in Hexagonal-Z Three-Dimensional Geometry for Neutron Diffusion Calculation

Abstract

The analytic function expansion nodal (AFEN) method in hexagonal-z geometry is described focusing on its unique features, including the use of node-interface flux moments. Multigroup extension based on matrix function theory and coarse group rebalance (CGR) acceleration are also described. The COREDAX code implementing the AFEN method is verified testing on the VVER-440 benchmark problem, a “simplified” VVER-1000 benchmark problem, and the SNR-300 benchmark problem.

KEYWORDS:

• analytic function expansion nodal (AFEN) method
• hexagonal-z geometry
• multigroup problem
• coarse group rebalance (CGR)
• COREDAX