Which type of reactor is utilized to pressurize the core water?

The pressurized water reactor (PWR) is designed to maintain the core water under high pressure, which prevents it from boiling even at high temperatures. In a PWR, the reactor coolant system consists of water that is pressurized to raise its boiling point above the temperatures typically found in the reactor core. This allows the core to operate efficiently and safely by circulating this high-pressure water to absorb and transfer heat produced during the nuclear fission process.

The primary advantage of this method is that it allows for a more controlled heat transfer process in the reactor. Because the coolant does not boil, it can effectively carry heat away from the reactor core to the steam generators, where heat is then transferred to a secondary water system to produce steam for driving turbines.

In contrast, other reactor types, such as the boiling water reactor (BWR), allow the coolant to boil within the reactor core, producing steam directly in the reactor vessel. Liquid metal fast reactors and thermal neutron reactors operate on different principles, focusing on different types of coolants and neutron moderation strategies. Thus, the PWR is specifically utilized for its effective pressurization of core water, enhancing safety and operational efficiency.