Control rod reactivity (worths) for the three control rods and fuel rod power
peaking factors in the University of Utah research reactor (100 kW TRIGA Mark
I) are characterized using the AGENT code system and the results described in
this paper. These values are compared to the MCNP6 and existing experimental
measurements. In addition, the eigenvalue, neutron spatial flux distributions
and reaction rates are analyzed and discussed. The AGENT code system is
widely benchmarked for various reactor types and complexities in their
geometric arrangements of the assemblies and reactor core material
distributions. Thus, it is used as a base methodology to evaluate neutronics
variables of the research reactor at the University of Utah. With its much
shorter computation time than MCNP6, AGENT provides agreement with the MCNP6
within a 0.5 % difference for the eigenvalue and a maximum difference of 10%
in the power peaking factor values. Differential and integral control rod
worths obtained by AGENT show well agreement with MCNP6 and the theoretical
model. However, regulating the control rod worth is somewhat overestimated by
both MCNP6 and AGENT models when compared to the experimental/theoretical
values. In comparison to MCNP6, the total control rod worths and shutdown
margin obtained with AGENT show better agreement to the experimental values.
The University of Utah Nuclear Engineering Program (UNEP) has established and continues to build a strong nuclear safety culture by developing class and laboratory soft skills training and activities. An effective safety-culture is essential to nuclear safety and can help prevent errors and misconduct by ensuring expectations and consequences are clearly stated and understood. Academic and research reactors present additional challenges as new students are joining the program and nuclear environment for the first time.
The UNEP is leading the way in establishing and building a strong positive nuclear safety culture. Social media and practical training is being developed that is intertwined with class and laboratory work along with integrating industry used tools and software to prepare the future nuclear workforce to meet the needs of the nuclear industry.
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