Use of simulation plus real steam turbine for teaching theory and operation of a pressurized water reactor

In teaching the theory and operation of a pressurized water reactor (PWR), a method is developed which makes use of an analog computer primary-loop simulation; however, the secondary loop consists of a real steam turbine-generator set. The analog is fitted with a reactor kinetics network and a transport delay unit with memory capacitors. Potentiometer settings at the analog originate at the real turbine as temperatures and pressures of the saturated steam at. 215 psia. Students consult steam tables, Mollier charts, etc. to obtain correct values for points at the interface, secondary side of the heat exchanger. The "pinch point" concept of heat transfer is used to transfer data across the heat exchanger to the primary loop. The proper potentiometer settings at the analog result from this pinch point and the design criteria for half-load or full-load operating condition existing at the turbine.Two dynamic variations are made from the "steady-statec" half-load run. One of these is a "sudden" throttle opening at the turbine; the other is a "step" reactivity insertion made at the reactor (analog). Students make adjustments for the revised settings in both loops. The educational benefits resulting from this "50% simulate + 50% real turbine" method of instruction have proved to be very meaningful to students as well as gratifying to the instructor.