William W. Wassel

A Microprocessor Based Automatic Flux Mapping System for Pressurized Water Reactors

A microprocessor controlled Flux Mapping System has been designed which permits automatic three-dimensional flux distribution measurements of a reactor core. The Flux Mapping System consists of a Detector Drive System which provides the mechanical means for routing movable detectors into and out of the core, and a Flux Mapping Console which allows for complete and automatic control of drive system operation, data gathering and system output. Both the Flux Mapping Console and the detector Drive System, their features and construction, are described. The console design is implemented using multiple microprocessors with a redundant internal architecture and a modular bus oriented construction that uses standard printed circuit boards. Overator interface is via an interactive CRT and keyboard. Low level analog signals from the detectors are digitized; scanning is synchronized with detector position; and automatic ranging is utilized for maximum resolution. Multiple data links allow data to flow from memory to printers, floppy discs, and a plant process computer. The microprocessors perform self-checking and system diagnostics for maximum system availability.

Advances in Acoustic Leak Monitoring Instrumentation

A microprocessor-based acoustic leak monitoring system is described. The system provides a nuclear reactor operator with continuous data regarding the presence of leaks in plant fluid systems. The features of the system are briefly discussed with emphasis on the specially developed acoustic transducer and data processing. Data gathered at several power plants covering various leak types are presented.

A Remote Data Acquisition and Display System

A remote data acquisition and display system is described. The system deploys distributed intelligent microprocessors using a structured, high-level language with a simple operating system. The hardware and microprocessor software are modular; thus, the overall system is flexible and can be easily tailored to a wide variety of applications. The remote units accept a variety of analog and digital signals, perform automatic test and calibration of analog inputs, and perform conversion to customary units of measure. Information is digitally multiplexed from the input units to display units which format the data for alphanumeric or graphic displays or for conventional analog meters or recorders. Operator interactions are achieved by means of functional keys on the display or via a maintenance terminal. Software tests and on-line diagnostics are used to detect faults and aid in maintenance and repair.

A Software Design Approach for Micro-Prcessor Based Safety Monitoring System

The design of software for a distributed, intelligent multiple microprocessor based system requires a disciplined team approach. This paper presents the methods and procedures used in the development and documentation of software programs for the Westinghouse Plant Safety Monitoring System (PSMS). Much effort has gone into designing a system that provides the reactor operator and supervisory personnel with concise, reliable and pertinent information about the safety status of the reactor system. The experiences in resolving the requirements and design dilemmas and in achieving team synergism are presented.

A Microprocessor Based Thermocouple/Core Cooling Monitor for Pressurized Water Reactors

A Thermocouple/Core Cooling Monitor is described. The system provides a nuclear reactor operator with rapidly available, readily understandable data concerning the adequacy of cooling of the reactor core. The functions of the instrument are briefly described and inadequacies of earlier in-core thermocouple data presentation techniques are reviewed. Descriptions of the thermocouples, the reference junction boxes, and the data processing hardware and software are given. Operational experience to date is summarized.