DYNAMIC MODELING AND CONTROLLER DESIGN FOR NUCLEAR POWER PLANT

Abstract

Higher order mathematical modeling and discrete fast output sampling control synthesis for PHWR (Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor)-type nuclear power plant is presented in this paper. The nonlinear dynamic model of PHWR power reactor is developed based on reactor, logarithmic amplifier, moderator level control valve and reactivity system. The nonlinear model is characterized by 15 state variables and one input. This higher order nonlinear model is linearized at full power operating point. A standard higher order state space model is realized for controller design purpose. An advanced discrete controller is synthesized for state space model of PHWR using fast output sampling methodology. Noise sensitivity is a typical problem with this type of controller. In this research work, a small deviation is allowed in order to reduce the noise sensitivity. The problems of noise sensitivity and poor output error dynamics are addressed and a multi-objective optimization problem is solved using LMI (Linear Matrix Inequalities) formulation. Fast output feedback gains are computed using LMI tool for MATLAB. An advanced fast output sampling controller is evaluated for power maneuvering from 270 MW th to 310 MW th on the nuclear power plant in Pakistan and found highly efficient and satisfactory within the control design constraints.