Optimization Design of a Multifunctional Support Bracket for Nuclear Power Plants

Over the past several decades, topology optimization has been widely applied in structural design through its integration with fluid mechanics and solid mechanics.This research focuses on the topology optimization design of the support bracket within nuclear fuel assemblies, which is responsible for filtering foreign objects, bearing loads, and facilitating coolant flow.The study initially targets the compliance of the support bracket under multi-point concentrated forces, employing topology optimization techniques to determine the optimal load transfer path.Subsequently, considering the foreign object filtering efficiency of the support bracket, the filtration channel is optimized with the goal of minimizing energy dissipation within the flow path.Finally, an adaptive tessellation strategy is used to integrate the optimized fluid channel with the load-bearing path, resulting in a complete support bracket structure, which is then subjected to structural performance validation.The analysis results indicate that, compared to conventional designs, the topology-optimized bracket has achieved a 17.65% increase in filtering efficiency, a 16.77% reduction in pressure drop, and a 21.88% enhancement in stiffness.These outcomes highlight the robust capabilities and significant potential of topology optimization techniques in the design of multi-functional and integrated structures.