Some applications of full scope plant simulators

A number of applications of full scope nuclear plant simulators are discussed. The authors suggest that in addition to training, simulators can be used for design and installation of control systems purposes, for testing operator aids, collecting data for engineering and licensing usage and for various research topics. These applications enhance the usefulness of simulators. However, the economic use of the simulators for these purposes depends on having an automatic data collection and analysis system. The use of the simulator for these purposes can help unite the various departments of a utility such as operations, training, engineering, probabilistic safety assessments (PSA) group, and research in an appreciation of each department's expertise and needs.<>