Optimal Level Controller for Steam Generators in Pressurized Water Reactors

The paper presents a different approach via optimal control theory to the design of water level controller for steam generators in large pressurized water reactors. The problem is cast into an optimal linear regulator control problem and a linearized state space model in standard form is developed from the nonlinear descriptor representation of the system. The proposed controller is a linear, constant, state feedback law which has the following desirable features: (a) the controller is independent of the disturbance, (b) the water level returns to its prespecified level value following a disturbance, (c) the controlled system is asymptotically stable, and (d) the transients are optimized. A numerical example is given to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed controller.