Nuclear fuel management optimization using genetic algorithms

Journal Article · Sat Jul 01 00:00:00 EDT 1995 · Nuclear Technology

OSTI ID:89655

DeChaine, M D; Feltus, M A ^[1]

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1. Pennsylvania State Univ., University Park, PA (United States)

The code independent genetic algorithm reactor optimization (CIGARO) system has been developed to optimize nuclear reactor loading patterns. It uses genetic algorithms (GAs) and a code-independent interface, so any reactor physics code (e.g., CASMO-3/SIMULATE-3) can be used to evaluate the loading patterns. The system is compared to other GA-based loading pattern optimizers. Tests were carried out to maximize the beginning of cycle k{sub eff} for a pressurized water reactor core loading with a penalty function to limit power peaking. The CIGARO system performed well, increasing the k{sub eff} after lowering the peak power. Tests of a prototype parallel evaluation method showed the potential for a significant speedup.

• OSTI ID: 89655
• Journal Information: Nuclear Technology, Vol. 111, Issue 1; Other Information: PBD: Jul 1995
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

21 NUCLEAR POWER REACTORS AND ASSOCIATED PLANTS
PWR TYPE REACTORS
FUEL MANAGEMENT
REACTOR FUELING
COMPUTER CODES
REACTOR CORES
STOCHASTIC PROCESSES