This lesson describes and explains the operating principles and design of the two major types of nuclear power plants. • Explain the basic operation of a Pressurized Water Reactor (PWR) nuclear power plant • Describe the containment structure of a PWR nuclear power plant • Describe the reactor pressure vessel of a PWR nuclear power plant • Explain the operation of the recirculation pumps in a PWR nuclear power plant. • Explain the function of the pressurizer in a PWR nuclear power plant • Explain the function of the steam generators in a PWR nuclear power plant • Describe the basic operation of a Boiling Water Reactor (BWR) nuclear power plant • Describe the pressure vessel of a BWR • Explain the function and operation of the recirculation jet pumps of a BWR • Describe the fuel rods used in PWRs and BWRs • Explain how the reactivity is controlled in PWRs and BWRs
