The Application of the Goal Programming to CANDU Fuel Management Optimization

Abstract

A Goal Programming formulation to CANDU fuel management optimization is proposed. Four objectives are considered, respectively : the feed rate, CPPF (Channel Power Peaking Factor), BPPF (Bundle Power Peaking Factor) and CTR (Critical Power Ratio). This problem is investigated using a numerical approach to optimization established on STepMethod and the use of loss matrix. The optimization technique developed is more adequate for fuel management analysis for fissile enriched fuel cycles, in which cases the relative importance of the objectives could be modified. Numerical results are presented for 0.93% SEU fueled CANDU 6Mkl core and weapons-grade plutonium burning in CANDU 6Mkl core, using standard 37 rod fuel bundle.