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The measurement of reactivity using algorithms derived from the dynamic period equation

Conference · · IEEE Trans. Nucl. Sci.; (United States)
OSTI ID:6150067
Two new algorithms for the measurement of reactivity have been developed. These are Inverse Dynamics, and the Hybrid Method. The basis of each is the dynamic period equation which gives the instantaneous reactor period as a function of both the rate of change of reactivity and the reactivity. Both methods are rigorous. Inverse dynamics uses the dynamic period equation to determine the rate of change of reactivity. The reactivity is then found by integration. The hybrid method applies simultaneously both the standard and the alternate forms of the dynamic period equation thereby solving directly for the reactivity. Both techniques have been tested on the 5 MWt MIT Research Reactor. Following a review of the definition of reactivity and existing methods for its measurement, these new techniques are described. The results of their experimental evaluation are then presented together with an assessment of their utility.
Research Organization:
Nuclear Reactor Lab., MIT, Cambridge, MA (US)
OSTI ID:
6150067
Report Number(s):
CONF-881103-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: IEEE Trans. Nucl. Sci.; (United States) Journal Volume: 36:1
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English