Operation and Control of TRIGA Nuclear Research Reactor with PLC

Abstract

Abstract — Nuclear reactor operation and control is a sophisticated system involving modern equipments and techniques. This paper proposes an operation and control feature of TRIGA Mark-II research reactor and discusses the structure and implementation of smooth automatic operation and control using programmable logic controller (PLC). The automation of the reactor and accurate power generation by demand is carried out by inserting or withdrawing control rods. Four trip conditions and one external faults (generalized for any external mechanical or electrical fault) are taken into account to shut down the reactor suddenly (SCRAM). This paper proposes better flexibility in operation & control and low cost & time for trouble shooting with PLC compared to the instrumentation currently offered by General Atomics for TRIGA reactor. Index Terms— I. INTRODUCTION A nuclear reactor is a system in which a nuclear reaction named fission (splitting the atom) chain reaction is initiated, sustained and controlled. Reactors are used for generating electricity, moving aircraft carriers and submarines, producing medical isotopes for imaging and cancer treatment and for conducting research. The energy in form of heat produced by fission reaction is carried out by coolant generally water that produce steam. The thermal power generation is manipulated by control rods. When inserted (moved down) in the reactor core, control rods absorb neutron and reduce generation of power. On the other hand when control rods are withdrawn (moved up) the number of fission and power level increases.