A Dynamic Model of Small Modular Reactor Based Nuclear Plant for Power System Studies

Small modular reactors (SMRs), an emerging nuclear power plant technology, are suitable for large grids as well as remote load centers and offer load following and frequency response capabilities. While the SMRs have expectedly higher response rates, detailed dynamic models including reactor dynamics are necessary for power system dynamic studies. This paper presents a dynamic model of an integral pressurized water reactor (iPWR)-type SMR, modeled in Siemens PTI PSS/E, to assess the contribution of the reactor to the power system dynamics. The proposed SMR model mimics the heat generation process and subsequent heat transfer process with the inclusion of the reactor core based on point kinetics, primary coolant based on natural circulation, and a simplified three lump representation of the steam generator. Controllers are designed to operate the turbine valve and reactor control rod in closed loops. The SMR model is integrated with the modified turbine-governor system and a power system study is conducted. Results show the power system and internal reactor responses when subjected to electrical demand variations of 20% rated electrical output (REO) with a valve rate limit of ±80% REO/min.