Robustness of optimized FPID controller against uncertainty and disturbance by fractional nonlinear model for research nuclear reactor

Abstract

In this study, a fractional order proportional integral derivative (FOPID) controller is designed to create the reference power trajectory and to conquer the uncertainties and external disturbances. A fractional nonlinear model was utilized to describe the nuclear reactor dynamic behaviour considering thermal-hydraulic effects. The controller parameters were tuned using optimization method in Matlab/Simulink. The FOPID controller was simulated using Matlab/Simulink and the controller performance was evaluated for Hard variation of the reference power and compared with that of integer order a proportional integral derivative (IOPID) controller by two models of fractional neutron point kinetic (FNPK) and classical neutron point kinetic (CNPK). Also, the FOPID controller robustness was appraised against the external disturbance and uncertainties. Simulation results showed that the FOPID controller has the faster response of the control attempt signal and the smaller tracking error with respect to the IOPID in tracking the reference power trajectory. In addition, the results demonstrated the ability of FOPID controller in disturbance rejection and exhibited the good robustness of controller against uncertainty.