Abstract
The contribution deals with the validation of the new protection system of the LVR-15 research reactor at the Nuclear Research Institute in Rez, Czech Republic; its thermal power goes up to 10MW. The new protection system is computer based and consists of a Start-up Power Measurement System, Operational Power Measurement System, and Independent Power Protection System. The validation was based on a simulation of input signals to each of the systems and the evaluation of the system responses. The validation process was controlled by computers. Three software modules were prepared for the validation tests - to prepare data for proper reactor power progress simulation, to send power progress data to generators, and to receive and evaluate messages from the validated systems. Simulated neutron chamber signals were generated by either pulse or current generators. Validation tests of the proper power and power rate measurement were carried out. Next, the time response of each system was evaluated. Finally, the generation of warning and safety signals along with a proper safety relay status check was successfully tested. All results of the validation tests were stored in the computer. The successful validation tests support the licensing procedure of the new protection system by the Czech State Office for Nuclear Safety.
