Modernization of TRR Control Rod Mechanisms Driving System Based on FPGA

Research reactors are important neutron sources for research and radioisotope production purposes. The common problem of these facilities is their obsolete instrumentation and control (IC therefore, the maintenance is a difficult problem. A major attitude of aging management of research reactors is modernization of the old age I&C systems. In this work, a modern control rod driving system for TRR control rod mechanisms is designed and constructed using state of the art electronic technology. Unlike the original analog system, self- check capability and essential interlocks are implemented. The system is cost effective as FPGA technology is utilized. Future upgrades are possible as FPGA is a reprogrammable device. The proposed equipment is recommended to be installed in other nuclear research reactors, which suffer from aged I&C systems.