Work

Coordinated Control Optimization of Nuclear Steam Supply Systems via Multi-Agent Reinforcement Learning

Year: 2025

Type: article

Abstract: Nuclear steam supply systems (NSSSs) are critical to achieving safe, efficient, and flexible nuclear power generation. While deep reinforcement learning (DRL) has shown potential in optimizing NSSS control, existing single-agent approaches apply the same optimization strategies to all subsystems. This simplification ignores subsystem-specific control requirements and limits both optimization efficacy and adaptability. To resolve this gap, we propose a multi-agent reinforcement learning (MARL) framework that independently optimizes each subsystem while ensuring global coordination. Our approach extends the current NSSS optimization framework from a single-agent model to a multi-agent one and introduces a novel MARL method to foster effective exploration and stability during optimization. Experimental findings demonstrate that our method significantly outperforms DRL-based approaches in optimizing thermal power and outlet steam temperature control. This research pioneers the application of MARL to NSSS optimization, paving the way for advanced nuclear power control systems.

Source: Energies

DOI: 10.3390/en18092223

Authors: Tianhao Zhang, Zhonghua Cheng, Zhe Dong, Xiaojin Huang

Institution: Tsinghua University

Language: English

Topic: Reinforcement Learning in Robotics

Subfield: Artificial Intelligence

Field: Computer Science

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Affordable and clean energy

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,137