Computer simulator for training students to control the dissolution process of the nuclear fuel cycle

Abstract

Background

The lack of training simulators for the process of dissolving uranium compounds in nitric acid, as well as for many other chemical production processes in the non-reactor part of the nuclear fuel cycle, poses an urgent task of developing simulators to improve the efficiency of training students of chemical and digital specialties, as well as personnel of nuclear industry enterprises, especially taking into account the growing trend of staff turnover.

Aim

To develop a computer training simulator reflecting the specifics of uranium oxide dissolution in nitric acid for controlling the technological equipment of the dissolution unit in normal mode, as well as for preventing and localizing emergency situations.

Materials and methods

The educational version of the simulator is based on an algorithmic and scenario approach using the C++ computer software No. 2024614688 “Computer technology for simulating the nuclear fuel cycle and automation (KT-Nimfa)”. The simulation model calculates dynamic changes in the gas pressure, volume and temperature of substances in the vessel, operation of shut-off valves, interlocks, and automation in normal and emergency operating modes of model elements. The calculation is based on the numerical solution of systems of ordinary differential equations using the Euler method.

Results and discussion

The process flow diagram for the educational version of the computer simulator is based on the analysis of the dissolution process for various compositions of uranium raw materials. A simulation model ensuring the operation of the dissolution unit in various modes has been developed. The simulation results including 3% root mean square error indicate the adequacy of the model and the possibility of its application in the simulator. The developed training method implements automatic assessment of the student’s actions. The hardware and software architecture of the simulator ensures simultaneous training of 12 students at a significantly reduced period of education compared to that without a simulator. In 2024, the developed educational version of the training computer simulator was installed at the National Research Tomsk Polytechnic University (Tomsk, Russian Federation) and included in the educational process for 18.05.2002 and 14.05.2004 specialties.

Conclusion

The developed educational version of the simulator based on a simulation model of uranium oxide dissolution in nitric acid under normal and emergency conditions allows 12 students to be simultaneously involved in the educational process. In addition to a shortened time of education, students can effectively assimilate information about the specifics of radiochemical technology, basics of industrial safety culture, as well as knowledge and skills in managing the technological equipment of the dissolution unit.