Accelerating Small Modular Reactor (SMR) Development
Through Integrated Simulation and Engineering
Engineering Simulation as the Foundation for FOAK Success
GSE provides the digital bridge between concept and reality—through advanced simulation, verification and validation (V&V), and human-system engineering platforms that bring SMR designs to life before construction ever begins.
Our Holistic Engineering Simulator is a multi-domain, high-fidelity environment that supports:
- Proving first-of-a-kind (FOAK) plant designs through predictive modeling.
- Validating integrated plant performance in steady-state and transient conditions.
- Demonstrating licensing basis behaviors with regulator-ready traceability and confidence.
High-Fidelity Models and Advanced Integration
To ensure predictive accuracy and realism, GSE’s engineering-grade simulation environment combines high-fidelity physics with industry-proven code integration.
- High-Fidelity Models: Predictive simulation—accurate even without operating data—minimizes later tuning and uncertainty.
- Extensive Library of Pre-Built BOP Models: Turbines, pumps, compressors, heat exchangers, and more—allowing rapid prototyping and early-stage performance studies.
- Advanced Industry Code Integration: Seamless incorporation of validated codes (e.g., RELAP, MAAP) into real-time simulation frameworks.
This approach ensures that every SMR model behaves like a real plant—reacting to transients, control signals, and operator actions with engineering-grade precision.
Controls System Design & V&V
The digital control system is the heartbeat of every SMR. GSE’s integrated simulation environment enables full lifecycle validation of control and protection logic:
- Real-time, plant-wide modeling provides a complete, accurate view of system dynamics.
- Logic and control validation — refine, verify, and tune control strategies before commissioning.
- Testing of normally untested logic — uncover edge cases that are unsafe or uneconomical to test in hardware.
- Performance optimization — identify operating efficiencies and tuning opportunities.
Our approach ensures that SMR digital control systems are validated, secure, and ready for early NRC engagement.
Human Factors Engineering Platform
SMR developers must demonstrate that control rooms, procedures, and human-machine interfaces (HMIs) are designed for safe and efficient operation. GSE’s Human Factors Engineering Platform supports:
- Design of DCS interfaces, alarm management, and information displays
- Control room layout and CONOPS (Conduct of Operations) optimization
- Alarm analysis and rationalization to reduce operator burden
- Procedure development and validation through dynamic simulation, minimizing the need for physical plant startups and reducing stress on real equipment
- “What-if” response refinement, ensuring operators are prepared for all credible scenarios
By integrating human factors into the digital twin early, GSE helps SMR teams align safety, efficiency, and human reliability from day one.
Watch Video to Learn More GSE’s SMR Solutions
Why GSE
- Proven Legacy: GSE has worked with NuScale, WEC, mPower, PBMR, Rolls Royce SMR and others on unique FOAK design plants.
- Trusted Partner: Recognized by regulators, OEMs, and utilities for accurate, reliable simulation.
- Integrated Expertise: Thermal-hydraulics, I&C, control systems, human factors, and operations all under one roof.
- Global Footprint: Supporting nuclear innovation across North America, Europe, and Asia.