Application of empirical modeling in nuclear reactor system analysis

Dynamic response characteristics of nuclear power reactors can be studied using either models derived from the conservation laws of physics or using empirical time series models. The latter requires performing tests and observing variations in signals during normal operation of the plant or during imposed perturbation of selected test inputs. This paper will consider the use of empirical time series models as a tool for simulating the dynamic responses of a nuclear power plant and for estimating sensor response characteristics to determine whether requirements on allowable response time are satisfied. The methods are applied to plant data from tests at Millstone (Unit 2) Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR).