On minimization of energy production losses in a system of reactors having a variable load schedule

A possibility for energy losses reduction in a system of reactors having a variable load schedule is analyzed. The effect is expected due to optimization of the reactivity distribution. The optimization problem formulated relates to the class of nonlinear problems and, generally, is numerically solved. A power system consisting of two reactors is considered. In this case the problem can be solved analytically and permits a simple geometric interpretation. For the reactor systems with different power rates and burnups the optimization effect on fuel utilization averages is rather significant. This testifies to the efficiency of the systems analysis of NPP's having a variable load schedule