A loading pattern optimization method based on discrete differential evolution

• Published in: Annals of nuclear energy 2020-03, Vol.137, p.107057, Article 107057
• Main Authors: Ding, Hui, Sun, Guangyao, Hao, Lijuan, Wu, Bin, Wu, Yican
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Discrete differential evolution; Loading pattern optimization; WBN1
• ISSN: 0306-4549; 1873-2100
• DOI: 10.1016/j.anucene.2019.107057

•Optimization of a core loading problem (LP) for a commercial reactor is considered.•A discrete differential evolution algorithm was developed for LP optimization.•The algorithm and a SuperMC code were applied to WBN1’s power flattening.•The optimized LP outperformed WBN1 designer LP for PPF. Core loading pattern (LP) optimization is a combinatorial optimization problem with significant impact on the economic and safety performance of a reactor. However, finding an optimal solution for core loading patterns is a very complex problem due to the large number of combinations of fuel assemblies. For this paper, a loading pattern optimization method based on discrete differential evolution was developed. To evaluate the method, a program coupled with SuperMC was developed and validated using a PWR test case. The program was then applied to minimize the radial power peak factor of the Watts Bar Nuclear 1 reactor under the constraint of the criticality state of the reactor. The results showed the discrete differential evolution to be reliable and effective in LP optimization.