Reactor power measurement by gamma and neutron radiation in Heavy Water Zero Power Reactor (HWZPR)

Abstract

Both gamma rays and neutrons are produced and distributed in different nuclear reactions within the Heavy Water Zero Power Reactor (HWZPR) core. The intensities of distributed gamma rays and neutrons from the reactor core are proportional to the reactor power. The NE213 organic scintillation detector can detect both gamma and neutron simultaneously. In this article, a new method has been used for calibration of the reactor power by measurement of gamma rays and neutrons with the 2″×2″ dimensions NE213 detector and suitable nuclear electronic equipments outside of core. The reactor calibrated power by this technique is on-line, prompt, and independent of safety and control rods and fuel configuration of the reactor with a good efficiency. The detector, when used 7–10m from the core center, has necessary efficiency for full-power range measurement (100W) and in case of accident occurring and sudden increase of the power up to 170W.