Core monitoring

Abstract

Reactor parameters subjected to limitations are continually monitored. Reactor operation is based on a number of parameters characterizing the distribution of coolant temperature, power profiles in the fuel assemblies, power density distribution. In-core instrumentation supplies raw data, which are processed, and finally reactor operator is provided with maps and logs. The present chapter describes detection methods, the elaboration of the detector signals, and the main steps of signal processing. The presented methods are used typically in pressurized water reactors (PWRs) and boiling water reactors. The emphasis is on the applied mathematical and physical methods as well as considerations.