Data-driven controller of nuclear steam generators by set membership approximation

Poor control of U-tube steam generators (UTSG) in a nuclear power plant can lead to frequent reactor shutdowns or damage of turbine blades. The steam generator is a highly complex, non-linear and time-varying system and its parameters vary with operating conditions. Therefore, it seems that design of a suitable controller is a necessary step to enhance plant availability factor. In this paper, a data-driven controller approximated by set membership approach is presented for the water-level control of U-tube steam generators in nuclear power plants. This controller is capable of learning the control action principles from the data obtained using other methods of automatic or manual control. Simulation results of the approximated controller demonstrate its capability in regulating the water level under random disturbances and reference level changes.