The current WIMS code is the latest generation of this internationally known code and as such combines all the reactor physics methods (both deterministic and Monte Carlo) developed by Serco Assurance over 30 years. The WIMS code thus uses a wide variety of methods to solve reactor physics problems and can be used for both benchmark and design type calculations.
WIMS is a software tool that Serco Assurance has developed to put the full power of this suite of methods securely into the hands of the every day (or occasional) user.
The latest version (WIMS9A) has now been released and offers a range of new capabilities. For further details, see the Guide to New Features.
What can WIMS be used for?
Users can benefit from using WIMS for design and predictive assessment of reactor physics performance for the following types of plant:
- All Thermal Reactor types
- MTR and other special reactor types
- Fuel transport flasks
- Reprocessing plants
- Experimental rigs
This will enable users to obtain estimates of the following parameters:
- Reactivity and reactivity coefficients
- Power profiles
- Inventory of irradiated fuel
- Reaction rates
- Lattice cell data for whole reactor calculations such as PANTHER.
The code can be used in conjunction with PANTHER to model the fuel management, steady state and transient behaviour of all thermal reactor plant.
A selection of WIMS applications are shown in the Applications Gallery.
Customers find WIMS more flexible than other reactor physics codes - Why?
Because of its open modular structure WIMS can be used in a wide variety of modes. This structure gives the code its great flexibility. Thus users can carry out the following types of calculation:
- Lattice cell calculations with pins on a square or triangular pitch
- Lattice cell calculations for a cluster geometry with pins on concentric rings
- Whole core MTR calculations
- Fuel depletion analysis
- Gamma heating studies
- Criticality Searches
This range of options and the capability to build different calculational routes within one code system mean that almost all types of reactor core calculation can be specified within WIMS.
WIMS has an easy to use input syntax and is backed up by a comprehensive range of introductory and reference documentation including an easy to follow User Guide which includes examples.
If you need assistance you can turn to our helpline
Why are WIMS Models now easier to set up?
WIMS has a input package called WIMSBUILDER which aids users in the setting up of standard models such as PWR models of lattice cells. The user is then only required to input what can be termed as engineering parameters such as material compositions and fuel geometry for a case. WIMSBUILDER also facilitates the production of data for PANTHER.
For a wider range of automated calculation control options, users can employ MENTOR-PRO
WIMS uses an integrated version of the MONK code for it's Monte Carlo Calculation
How do I know my model is correct?
WIMS is supported by a range of graphics productivity tools which means that checking for geometry errors is easy. In particular the CACTUSedit facility and VISAGE can be used to set up and modify geometry using graphics tools.
What validation supports my calculation?
A central validation database supports the use of WIMS and contains a wide range of experimental comparisons to give the user increased confidence in the code and nuclear data library.
Where do I find out more?
For a more detailed view have a look at a few technical papers.
For further information contact the ANSWERS Customer Support Team.