Reactor Operator Practice Exam

Describe the number of blades in the UFTR control system?

Four blades Three blades Five blades Six blades

Correct Answer:

Four blades

Explanation:

Control of reactor power in the UFTR relies on inserting and withdrawing absorber elements to tune reactivity. In this design, four control blades are used, arranged symmetrically around the core. That symmetry lets the operator change the neutron absorption evenly, providing smooth, controllable adjustments to power and a reliable shutdown path. With four blades, you get a practical balance of control range, uniform flux shaping, and mechanical simplicity suited to this small training reactor. Having the blades in a four-element setup avoids the asymmetry or limited control range you’d face with fewer blades, and keeps the system from becoming needlessly complex if there were more blades. So four blades is the design choice that matches the UFTR’s size and control needs.

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