MARVEL Instrumentation, Control, and Software Considerations

This paper details the various instrument and control considerations and design decisions made throughout MARVEL (Microreactor Applications Research Validation and Evaluation) with the focus before 2025, including sensor and actuator selection, safety-related functionality, digital control hardware and software, and testing methodologies. Key challenges, such as managing radiation, temperature, and space constraints, are discussed, along with the trade-offs between using standard equipment and custom solutions. The successful integration of off-the-shelf components, the emphasis on minimizing safety-related instrumentation, and the lessons learned from prototyping and testing are highlighted. The authors aim to provide insights that can benefit future microreactor designs and emphasize the importance of real-world testing in advancing reactor technology.