Application of integrated detection systems for in-core instrumentation of nuclear power plants

On the basis of results of research and development, the advantages and disadvantages of detection systems for in-core reactor instrumentation are evaluated. The technological feasibility and the application of such systems are discussed as well as their potential economic benefits. The paper presents long-term research and development results for such systems which are intended to measure physical and thermotechnical core parameters in a fuel assembly. Experience gained with these systems is discussed, together with their evaluation in an operational nuclear power reactor. The systems make it possible to determine experimentally the basic safety characteristics by means of measuring the coolant flow, pressure and pressure pulsations, neutron flux, heat generation, and heat of coolant and fuel assembly surfaces, enabling an exact determination of the fuel assembly heat output. (author)