Abstract

Prestressed Cast Iron Vessel (PCIV) use for advanced nucelar reactor applications, epecially for the Gas-Cooled Fast Reactor (GFR), is reviewed. Particular attention is given to the extensive work in Germany, which includes design analysis and the construciton and test of semi-scale PCIVs.  Several proposed applications worldwide to HTGR, BWR, and PWR units are also documented.  IT is concluded the PCIV is a prime candidate for GFR applications because of its exceptionally high assurance against coolant leakage at a cost that is competitvie with that of PCRVs or convenitonal forged steel vessels.