Evaluating Transient Handling Capability of Fuzzy Logic Controller for a Pressurized Heavy Water Reactor (PHWR)

Abstract

Safe and reliable control of a nuclear reactor with sufficient accuracy has been a challenging task. The objective of this work is to design a Fuzzy Logic Controller (FLC) for a PHWR that not only provides a safe and reliable operation but also a fast and accurate reactor control, especially under transient situations. To design such controller, we select a 22^nd order Single-Input Single-Output (SISO) model of the PHWR. We consider Xenon and Iodine dynamics, fuel and coolant temperature feedbacks, delayed and photo neutron concentrations while developing the model. A modern FLC is designed using the Mamdani type inference engine. The controller is simulated and validated for; (i) step power changes, (ii) reactivity disturbances, and (iii) loss of grid scenario. Our results show that the controller performs well in terms of safety, reliability and accuracy.