AutoCAD
Created a proposed soft-starter wiring diagram showing how the new equipment could connect to the existing N-16 pump architecture without disrupting other controls.
SUMMER 2025 · ENGINEERING INTERN · SPINE SCHOLAR
Reducing Pressure Transients Caused by N-16 Pumps at ATR
Evaluating an electrical motor-starting solution for startup-related pressure transients in the Advanced Test Reactor’s N-16 pump system.
01 / BACKGROUND
Research Problem
During my Summer 2025 engineering internship at Idaho National Laboratory, I investigated pressure transients during startup of the N-16 pumps at the Advanced Test Reactor. The N-16 system supports reactor power monitoring. Startup-related pressure oscillations in the pump discharge piping motivated the investigation.
02 / APPROACH
Comparing Motor-Starting Alternatives
My research poster considered star-delta starting, soft starters, and variable frequency drives as electrical approaches. I focused on a soft starter because it gradually ramps motor voltage, potentially reducing starting torque, mechanical stress, and pressure surges while avoiding unnecessary expense for infrequently started pumps.
03 / PROPOSED DESIGN
Soft-Starter Electrical Integration
One of the most challenging parts of this project was determining how a soft starter could fit into the existing N-16 pump electrical architecture. I had to study the current wiring and controls, work through where new connections and components could go, and consider how to avoid interfering with existing system functions. I used AutoCAD to create a proposed wiring diagram showing how the soft starter could potentially be integrated into the current system. This work helped turn my research into a more concrete design for engineers to review.
Project status: This was a proposed design, not a confirmed installation. I was told implementation was planned as a next step, but I have not verified whether it was installed or tested. The actual effect on pressure transients therefore remains unconfirmed.
04 / ENGINEERING CHALLENGE
Working Within an Existing Electrical System
Rather than designing a new system from scratch, I needed to understand the existing pump architecture and determine how to add the soft starter without disrupting other equipment or control functions. I used AutoCAD to document a potential implementation, including the proposed wiring changes. The next step would be for the laboratory engineering team to review, implement, and test the design to determine whether it reduces startup-related pressure transients.
05 / RESEARCH POSTER
Summer 2025 Poster Session
SKILLS IN PRACTICE
Skills Applied
Here is how the tools and techniques from my Technical Skills section were applied to this project.
Circuit Design
Analyzed existing electrical connections and integration constraints while comparing potential motor-starting solutions.