Self Powered Neutron Detectors Calculations Using RAST-K 2.1

Abstract

In order to monitor local flux (flux monitoring), the detectors with (n, β) characteristics like Rhodium and Vanadium SPND (Self Powered Neutron Detectors) are widely used in power nuclear reactors. In this investigation, a module has been developed and added to the RAST-K v2.0 (Reactor Analysis code for Steady state and Transient) for detector’s intensity calculation purposes. The module allows the user to select among different well known emitter materials. Here, the behavior of SPND with Rhodium and Vanadium are analyzed during reactor normal power changes. In addition, to reach the best accuracy and run-time performance, CRAM (Chebyshev Rational Approximation Method) is used as a depletion method. Results are provided for OPR1000 Shin-Kori Unit 1.