Development of the 5 MW experimental low temperature nuclear heating reactor and its operational features

5 MW experimental low temperature nuclear heating reactor developed by the Institute of Nuclear Energy Technology. Tsinghua University, was completed and put into operation. The main design characteristics, including the integrated arrangement, dual pressure containing vessel structure, hydraulic control rod drive system used in reactor first time in the world, natural circulation and the design provisions for protecting heating grid from radioactive contamination are briefly described. These design measures greatly enhanced its inherent safety features. The main safety characteristics, key experiments and the operational features, such as load-follow ability and optional stability are also presented