Experimental Breeder Reactor–II Frequency Response Test Measurements Via Pseudorandom, Discrete-Level Binary and Ternary Signals

Review of kinetic modulation experiments in low power nuclear reactors

“…The number of studies on modulation experiments reduced significantly. Only a few references can be cited [48][49][50][51] during this period. A possible explanation for this observation can be the decrease in the number of operating ZPRs.…”

“…The driving system of linear oscillator has its capacity reduced for high frequency motion due to structural vibration and limits in the transmission system. Therefore, discontinuous pseudo-random binary motion [15,38,51,75,76] is preferred for the high flexibility it offers to the experimental setup. This kind of motion is driven by a binary sequence generated with a deterministic algorithm and has a similar statistical behavior to true stochastic sequence.…”

“…Its rich frequency spectra (a large number of harmonics) lead to the possibility to simultaneously measure the RTF at multiple frequencies by a proper design. As shown in Figure 6, dedicated algorithms can be used to generate binary sequences with desired spectral properties [51,77]. The use of a linear actuators were observed to distort the designed signal from square-like to trapezoid-like ones.…”

“…. Power spectra of pseudo-random binary reactivity modulations in Experimental Breeder Reactor-II (Argonne National Laboratory, 1999[51]).…”

Export Control Guide: Loose Parts Monitoring Systems for Nuclear Power Plants

“…However, the basic technology -frequency response function measurement of system permutation events -is widely used and highly sophisticated. For example, Rhodes et al (2000) measured the frequency response function of the Experimental Breeder Reactor-II (EBR-II) 2 and demonstrated the reactor's inherent feedback stability at full-power operation, thereby validating and advancing breeder reactor technology. The technology has also demonstrated remarkable versatility, with applications in systems that monitor the condition of rotating machinery; systems that detect leaks in steam generators, steam lines, and valves; and systems that detect flaws and crack propagation in construction materials.…”