Modeling of the 2 MW TRIGA Mark-II Research Reactor Using the Deterministic Codes System DRAGON5 and DONJON5

Abstract

This paper investigates the applicability of the DRAGON5 and DONJON5 code system to develop an accurate full-core model of the Moroccan 2 MW TRIGA Mark-II research reactor. The evaluated cross-section data library ENDFB.VII.1 with SHEM-295 group structure was used. A validation approach is applied to verify the consistency of the developed model. The results of the deterministic calculations based on ENDFB.VII.1/DRAGON5/DONJON5 scheme are compared with the experimental values available in the safety analysis report (SAR) as well as the Monte Carlo results. It was found that the DRAGON5 and DONJON5 code system results for core excess reactivity, critical size, reactivity worth of the five control rods, the power distribution and hot rod power peaking factor are in good agreement with measurements and the MCNP5 simulation values. Therefore, this study proves the capability of the DRAGON5 and DONJON5 code system to reliably simulate the TRIGA Type research reactors.