Dynamical modeling and simulation analysis of a nuclear desalination plant based on the MED-TVC process

Abstract Nuclear fission reaction is a clean energy source that can provide thermal power to desalination processes for producing potable water. Due to the inherent safety features of the integral pressurized water reactor (iPWRs) and economic competitiveness of the multi-effect-desalination and thermal-vapor-compression (MED-TVC) process, it is reasonable to interconnect the iPWR with MED-TVC process to develop nuclear desalination plants (NDPs). Dynamic modeling is important for both the design and optimization of the control systems for nuclear desalination plants. In this paper, based on the balance of mass, momentum, energy and salt, a lumped-parameter dynamic model for the NDP composed of an iPWR named NHR-200II and the MED-TVC process is given for the plant control design, which is further deployed as a program on Matlab/Simulink platform. For the modeling verification, the steady points of some key process variables are shown with comparison to the design data, and the open-loop responses under the stepping of both the input seawater flowrate and TVC throat cross-section area are given, which not only show accuracy of this model but also illustrate the coupling between the nuclear steam supply system (NSSS) and MED-TVC modules. Then, a plant control strategy of the NDP based upon NHR-200II reactor and MED-TVC module is newly proposed. Based on the dynamic model, the control verification is finally performed, and the closed-loop responses in the cases of both power maneuvering and MED-TVC module bypassing show the feasibility and satisfactory performance of this control design.