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DOE OSTI · 3024431

MARVEL Instrumentation, Control, and Software Considerations

Baker, Benjamin A. [Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)] (ORCID:0000000262742478)·Heim, Andrew Joseph [Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)] (ORCID:0009000939508446)·Crawford, Anthony L. [Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)] (ORCID:0000000283378636)
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Abstract

This paper details the various I&C considerations and design decisions made throughout the MARVEL (Micro-reactor Applications Research Validation and Evaluation) project, including sensor and actuator selection, safety-related functionality, digital control hardware and software, and testing methodologies. Key challenges such as managing radiation, temperature, and space constraints are discussed, along with the trade-offs between using standard equipment and custom solutions. The successful integration of off-the-shelf components, the emphasis on minimizing safety-related instrumentation, and the lessons learned from prototyping and testing are highlighted. The authors aim to provide insights that can benefit future micro-reactor designs and emphasize the importance of real-world testing in advancing reactor technology.

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46 - INSTRUMENTATION RELATED TO NUCLEAR SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGYActuatorsControl systemsDesign decisionsDigital control hardwareI&CInstrumentationInstrumentation and ControlLessons LearnedMARVELMicro-reactorReactivity control systemReactor protection systemSafety-related functionalitySensorsSoftwareTestingcontrolreactor

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Baker, Benjamin A. [Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)] (ORCID:0000000262742478), Heim, Andrew Joseph [Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)] (ORCID:0009000939508446), Crawford, Anthony L. [Idaho National Laboratory (INL), Idaho Falls, ID (United States)] (ORCID:0000000283378636). 2026-01-30. MARVEL Instrumentation, Control, and Software Considerations. https://doi.org/10.1080/00295450.2025.2606609

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