Computer-aided testing and operational aids for PARR-1 nuclear reactor

Using the plant computer of Pakistan Research Reactor (PARR-1) for automatic periodic testing of nuclear instrumentation in the reactor is described. Computer algorithms have been developed for online acquisition and real-time processing of nuclear channel signals. The mean value, standard deviation, and probability distributions of nuclear channel signals are obtained in real time, and the computer generates a warning message if the signal error exceeds the maximum permissible error. In this way, a faulty channel is automatically identified. Other real-time algorithms are also described that assist the operator in safe reactor operation by automatically computing approach-to-criticality during reactor start-up, and the control rod worth determination