Reactor Process Trainer

A simplified dynamic reactor simulator designed for operator training and process control testing. It reproduces key behaviors of a thermal reactor system including power response, heat transfer, and safety interlocks. Currently under development — live demo will be released soon.

Reactor and Process Model

The simulator is based on a simplified thermal-hydraulic model of a light-water reactor, representing the relationship between core power, coolant flow, and heat transfer to the secondary side. The model runs dynamically with energy and mass balance equations solved in real-time.

  • Reactor core modeled with single-node energy balance (fuel + coolant)
  • Feedwater and steam loops connected via heat exchanger section
  • Dynamic power feedback (moderator and temperature coefficients)
  • Adjustable reactivity and control rod input for operator testing

DCS Screens (User Interface)

The reactor model connects to a browser-based visualization inspired by DCS/SCADA interfaces. It allows operators to observe key parameters (pressure, temperature, power, control rod position) and manipulate controls directly through simulated panels.

  • Interactive process diagram with real-time variable updates
  • Control rod and valve positioning from keyboard or panel controls
  • Digital indicators and trend plots refreshed every second
  • Designed for integration with MySQL-based data exchange and Unreal Engine front-end

Safety Shutdown (SCRAM) Functions

The simulator includes logic mimicking real SCRAM (Safety Control Rod Axe Man) systems. It automatically inserts control rods when safety thresholds are exceeded — such as high power, excessive coolant temperature, or loss of feedwater flow.

  • SCRAM trigger on core overtemperature or overpressure
  • Reactor trip logic with latched interlocks
  • Visual alarm indicators and reset procedure
  • Safety chain simulation consistent with OTS requirements

PID Controllers

Multiple PID loops are implemented to maintain reactor power and temperature stability. Controllers are tuned to show realistic lag, overshoot, and steady-state accuracy, allowing operators to practice adjusting control parameters.

  • Reactor power control based on neutron flux feedback
  • Feedwater temperature and level control in secondary loop
  • Adjustable gains for simulation-based training (Kp, Ki, Kd)
  • Controller output tracking with simulated actuator delay

Interested in Collaboration?

The Reactor Process Trainer is part of a growing simulation platform connecting process models with digital interfaces and operator training environments. If you're interested in custom reactor models or OTS integration, let's discuss your needs.

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