Reactor Theory (Reactor Operations)
DOE-HDBK-1019/2-93
OBJECTIVES
TERMINAL OBJECTIVE
3.0
Without references, EXPLAIN the concepts concerning reactor startup, operation, and
shutdown.
ENABLING OBJECTIVES
3.1
EXPLAIN why a startup neutron source may be required for a reactor.
3.2
LIST four variables typically involved in a reactivity balance.
3.3
EXPLAIN how a reactivity balance may be used to predict the conditions under which
the reactor will become critical.
3.4
LIST three methods used to shape or flatten the core power distribution.
3.5
DESCRIBE the concept of power tilt.
3.6
DEFINE the term shutdown margin.
3.7
EXPLAIN the rationale behind the one stuck rod criterion.
3.8
IDENTIFY five changes that will occur during and after a reactor shutdown that will
affect the reactivity of the core.
3.9
EXPLAIN why decay heat is present following reactor operation.
3.10
LIST three variables that will affect the amount of decay heat present following reactor
shutdown.
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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