Hot point detection method

Abstract

Abstract A method is described by which the information obtained on-line through a system of neutron measuring devices such as self-powered neutron detectors (SPNDs, also called collectrons) inserted in the core of a nuclear power reactor (in particular, a PWR) allows the on-line detection of a possible hot spot during plant operation. The method is based on the generalized perturbation method (GPT) techniques, for the calculation of the sensitivity coefficients of the integral quantities measured with the collectrons with respect to parameters representative of the hot spot, and on the use of statistical inference techniques, taking into account the errors associated with the measurements. The methodology allows to assess the effect on the quality of the hot point detection system following possible failures of the measuring devices during the core life cycle. Such an assessment may be useful for defining an adequate protection strategy in terms of quality, number and distribution of the collectrons.