A control rod drive mechanism (CRDM) is an electromechanical equipment that provides linear movement for the control rods to control the nuclear reactivity in a nuclear reactor. A rod position indication system (RPIS) detects the control rod's position. To enhance the measurement accuracy of the system, a magnetostrictive type sensor with capability of generating operation limiting signals would be adapted instead of a conventional RPIS for a CRDM. An RPIS was modelled for a numerical analysis with the permanent magnets at the stationary limit positions and magnetic shielding plates with a moving permanent magnet. The performance analysis of the RPIS were conducted, and the results were discussed here.

A CRDM (Control Rod Drive Mechanism) is an electromagnetic device which drives a control rod assembly linearly to regulate the reactivity of a nuclear core. An RPIS (Rod Position Indication System) is used as a position indicator for a control rod assembly of a CRDM of SMART, and an RPIS consists of permanent magnets and reed switches. SMART is designed for the maximum coolant temperature of 350 o C, and the permanent magnets are installed inside of the reactor. The reed switches and electrical circuit are installed outside of the reactor on the other hand. Test coil for a reed switch is test equipment for quality verification of a reed switch, and a test coil consists of a coil and core. In this study, magnetic property of test coil and permanent magnet on a reed switch is compared by using finite element electromagnetic simulation.Keywords : rod position indication system, test coil, permanent magnet, magnetic property, reed switchTest Coil과 영구자석의 자기 특성 연구