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The human factor in licensing and operating the next generation of nuclear plants
As human factors specialists working at the intersection of human performance and nuclear operations, we are witnessing one of the nuclear sector’s most significant transitions in decades. The emergence of small modular reactors, microreactors, and other advanced designs is reshaping the industry’s landscape. Digital instrumentation and controls, passive safety systems, and increased automation are creating opportunities for greater safety margins and more flexible operation. These same features also fundamentally redefine what it means to “operate” a nuclear plant. Interactions among human roles, automation, and passive systems shape how people maintain awareness, exercise judgment, and intervene when necessary. These developments affect both operational realities and the regulatory foundations on which nuclear safety is built.
Haico V. Kok, Tim H. J. J. van der Hagen
Nuclear Technology | Volume 127 | Number 1 | July 1999 | Pages 38-48
Technical Paper | Thermal Hydraulics | doi.org/10.13182/NT99-A2982
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
A model is developed that enables the determination of steady-state values of all system variables of the boiling water reactor simulator loop DESIRE. The model calculates natural-circulation mass flow rate, subcooling, carry-under, and feedwater flow rate from the three independent variables: power, feedwater temperature, and the setting of a controllable friction valve. The void fraction in the assembly is calculated using the drift-flux model with Dix's correlation. A submodel for the calculation of carry-under is derived on the basis of measurements. Comparison of the model with measurements shows an excellent agreement over a wide range of operating conditions.