IFE supports nuclear education facility at Lancaster University

Control room technologies from IFE’s Hammlab. Photo: Gyrd Skråning jr.

Lancaster University is developing a new educational facility that will support teaching, using simulator software models for three reactor types: pressurized water reactor (PWR), small modular reactor (SMR), and tokamak fusion reactor.

IFE supports the university’s ambitions by delivering control room technologies, together with experience and know‑how from IFE’s research laboratory, HAMMLAB. The delivery includes state‑of‑the‑art human–machine interfaces (HMIs) enabling efficient monitoring and control of the simulated PWR and SMR plants. The HMIs comprise both detailed operator workstation displays and plant‑wide overview displays, providing a realistic digital control room environment.

IFE also provides computerized operating procedures for the simulated PWR and SMR plants, covering normal, abnormal, and emergency operations. In addition, a range of simulator scenarios is being developed for education and training, together with scenario development training for the facility’s teachers.

Technologies supporting learning, training and long‑term use

To support learning and reflection, IFE has delivered advanced software for recording and playback of simulator sessions. The software integrates audio, video, screen content, data logs, instructor‑initiated malfunctions, students’ actions and simulator responses into a combined stream for post‑scenario replay and learning.

The HMIs, computerized operating procedures, and recording and playback software are now operable in the facility. Scenario deployment and scenario development training will commence shortly, enabling Lancaster University to offer students hands‑on experience with high‑fidelity nuclear power plant simulators and structured learning through review of recorded simulator sessions together with teachers.

“This new teaching asset is unique within the UK and will greatly enhance the experience and learning opportunities for students on our nuclear engineering programmes” says Dr Samuel Murphy, Director of Studies for Nuclear Engineering at Lancaster University.

Finally, IFE will provide long‑term technical and operational support to the facility.