Fission Reactor Systems
The Fission Reactor System is a complex, high-output energy generation framework involving multiblock reactors, thermal management, and fuel breeding.
The Reactors
1. Pressurized Fission Reactor (PFR)
The standard entry-point for nuclear power. It consumes nuclear fuel rods to generate heat, which must be managed via coolant fluids. - Cooling: Requires a steady supply of coolant (like Water or Sodium) to prevent core damage. - Power Output: Determined by the fuel type and the number of active rods.
2. High-Performance Breeder Reactor
An advanced multiblock designed to convert "blanket" materials into useful isotopes while generating power. - Breeding Logic: In addition to standard fuel consumption, this reactor uses Blanket Rods (Thorium, Uranium, etc.) to produce new materials. - Spectrum Bias: The type of isotopes produced can be influenced by the reactor's configuration.
Reactor Components
1. Fuel Rods
The heart of the reactor. Different tiers of rods (T1 to T5) provide varying levels of heat and energy. - Neutron Bias: High-tier rods provide a "Neutron Flux" that can amplify the efficiency of surrounding rods. - Depletion: Once a fuel cycle is complete, the rod is converted into Spent Fuel, which can be reprocessed.
2. Coolers
Blocks placed within the reactor structure to dissipate heat. - Cooling Power: Each cooler has a specific HU/t (Heat Unit) capacity. - Coolant Requirements: Some coolers require specific fluids to be pumped into the reactor's input hatches to remain active.
3. Moderators
Moderators like Graphite or Beryllium are used to control the reaction. - EU Boost: Increases the energy output of the reactor. - Fuel Discount: Reduces the speed at which fuel rods are consumed. - Parallel Bonus: Allows the reactor to process multiple "virtual" recipes at once, increasing throughput.
4. Safety Systems: SCRAM Hatches
SCRAM (Safety Control Rod Axe Man) hatches are critical for preventing meltdowns. - Manual SCRAM: Can be triggered via the UI to immediately shut down the reaction. - Automated SCRAM: Advanced sensors can be configured to automatically trigger a SCRAM if core temperature exceeds a safe threshold.
Thermal Management & Meltdowns
If a reactor generates more heat than its coolers can handle, the Core Temperature will rise. - Warning Phase: The UI and Jade/Waila tooltips will show "CORE HEATING UP." - Meltdown Timer: Once the temperature hits the critical limit, a countdown begins. - The End: If the temperature is not lowered (via SCRAM or increased cooling) before the timer hits zero, the reactor will explode, leaving behind radioactive waste and destroying the structure.