Improvements in the operation of nuclear reactors

This issue deals with le latest improvements in operation of the nuclear reactors, aiming at an increased flexibility and reliability. The following is analyzed: - flexibility in planning the scheduled shut-downs of pressurized water reactors: load modulation, extension-anticipation of the test series, - search for loading patterns in operation: specifications, flexibility and management of unexpected events, - tests prior to restart of the PWR units, - calibration of the external nuclear instrumentation channels, - knowledge management for operation of the SILOE research reactor, - economic management of the French nuclear power plants. (author)