Reactor Theory (Reactor Operations)
DOE-HDBK-1019/2-93
REACTOR OPERATION
REACTOR OPERATION
It is important to understand the principles that determine how a reactor responds
during all modes of operation. Special measures must be taken during the startup
of a reactor to ensure that expected responses are occurring. During power
operation, control of the flux shape is necessary to ensure operation within limits
and maximum core performance. Even when a reactor is shut down, the fact that
the fission products created by the fission process continue to generate heat
results in a need to monitor support systems to ensure adequate cooling of the
core.
EO 3.1
EXPLAIN why a startup neutron source may be required for
a reactor.
EO 3.2
LIST four variables typically involved in a reactivity balance.
EO 3.3
EXPLAIN how a reactivity balance may be used to predict the
conditions under which the reactor will become critical.
EO 3.4
LIST three methods used to shape or flatten the core power
distribution.
EO 3.5
DESCRIBE the concept of power tilt.
EO 3.6
DEFINE the term shutdown margin.
EO 3.7
EXPLAIN the rationale behind the one stuck rod criterion.
EO 3.8
IDENTIFY five changes that will occur during and after a
reactor shutdown that will affect the reactivity of the core.
EO 3.9
EXPLAIN why decay heat is present following reactor
operation.
EO 3.10
LIST three variables that will affect the amount of decay heat
present following reactor shutdown.
EO 3.11
ESTIMATE the approximate amount of decay heat that will
exist one hour after a shutdown from steady state conditions.
Rev. 0
NP-04
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