Russian Nuclear Engineering Students to Train on Digital Reactor Simulator
The system replicates the full operation of a VVER-1000 nuclear power unit used at operating nuclear plants.
The Institute of Nuclear Energy and Industry at Sevastopol State University has upgraded the training laboratory of its Department of Nuclear Power Engineering Systems.
The centerpiece of the modernization is a new analytical simulator for the VVER-1000 reactor. The system is a digital replica of the main systems of a power unit equipped with a water-water energetic reactor, the type widely used at operating nuclear power plants.
Digital Replica of a Power Unit
The new complex cost 70 million rubles ($~760,000). Instructors are currently learning to operate the simulator, and beginning next academic year students will start training at the control panels and workstations. The complex models the entire operational cycle of a nuclear power unit—from the reactor and turbine halls to the electrical control room, incorporating all major systems.
The VVER-1000 analytical simulator is a high-precision digital model used to train control-room operators, process engineers, and other nuclear energy specialists. The software for the complex was developed in Russia. Such advanced technological platforms are currently available only at a limited number of specialized universities.
Specialists report that students who thoroughly master the simulator’s structure and operational algorithms are already about 80 percent prepared for employment at Rosenergoatom and Rosatom.
Toward a World-Class Campus
The simulator is used to model both routine operations and potential emergency scenarios. It is also used to evaluate whether trainees are ready to work with real equipment. After each session, instructors review the exercise with the group, analyzing reaction speed, the accuracy of decisions, and the coordination of the team.
The laboratory upgrade is considered an important development not only for Sevastopol State University but also for the region. On the northern side of Sevastopol, in the Hollandia district, officials plan to build an international world-class campus designed to train specialists for key sectors of the economy. The campus will consist of six clusters, including a Center for Advanced Nuclear and Energy Technologies. Modern equipment being installed at the university—including the simulator—will strengthen the university’s bid to host the future educational complex.
Earlier reports noted that Rosatom recently shared its digital experience with water utility operators in Belarus.
