Looking for MCNP tutorials for a beginner

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around finding tutorials and resources for beginners learning to use the MCNP (Monte Carlo N-Particle Transport Code) software, particularly in the context of research applications such as analyzing HTGR (High-Temperature Gas-cooled Reactor) reactors.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses a need for step-by-step tutorials on MCNP, specifically for research purposes.
  • Another participant recommends the new version of the MCNP Primer by J Kenneth Shultis and Amir A Bahadori as a primary resource, along with the MCNP Guide by Dr. Andy Boston for understanding practical applications.
  • Concerns are raised about the complexity of MCNP, noting that it may be confusing for beginners due to its long development history and the nature of its error messages.
  • A participant mentions the existence of a Python library called CardSharp, which aids in generating MCNP input decks and could be beneficial for beginners.
  • Another participant acknowledges the developer of CardSharp and appreciates the contribution.
  • A link to a personal reference website related to MCNP is shared by a participant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the usefulness of specific resources like the MCNP Primer and CardSharp, but there is no consensus on a singular best starting point for tutorials, as different participants have varying experiences and preferences.

Contextual Notes

Some participants mention difficulties accessing certain documents and resources, indicating potential limitations in availability. The discussion reflects a range of experiences with MCNP, highlighting the need for tailored guidance for beginners.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals new to MCNP, researchers looking for simulation tools in nuclear engineering, and those interested in computational modeling in STEM fields may find this discussion beneficial.

jorgenbill
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wanted to learn the MCNP for my research, but need some help, don't know nothing about that.
There some step by step tutorial in youtube or website focus on that.
Wanna make one analysis in one HTGR reactor in the case
 
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Welcome to Physics Forums @jorgenbill

There is a new version of the MCNP Primer by J Kenneth Shultis and Amir A Bahadori and there is simply no reason to start anywhere else.

Edit - Archived copy of the Primer here.

I also rate the MCNP Guide by Dr Andy Boston. Especially as that covers the simulation of 'real' events like counts on a neutron detector, which after a full reading of the manual I didn't understand until I read this guide.

If you need specific stuff the manual for 6.3 is good and public, but a long read. I would consult this before any other version of the manual even if your MCNP version is not 6.3

A few warnings. MCNP is a program written over a period of 50ish years by smart people for the use of smart people and it's going to feel crazy and confusing at the start. The methods are very clever, often not obvious and the error messages frequently don't seem to identify to the cause of the problem. Ride the wave of chaos, try to enjoy discovering how to make the program work and some of the methods it uses.

Also there are a number of people in this forum with a good grasp of the program. So if you get stuck, do ask for help.

Good luck!
 
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Is there any tutorials that might be helpful to start with?
 
Welcome to Physics Forums @Jaddyd,

I'm a little shocked that I don't seem to have a copy of the new version of the primer and with archive down neither document works.

Edit - InternetArchive is up but the front page isn't working for me. Wayback is working and I've added a link. So both documents can be viewed.
 
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I would like to bring attention to a Python library called CardSharp for generating MCNP input decks which can be especially useful for MCNP beginners: https://github.com/pnnl/CardSharpForMCNP.
It has comprehensive support for geometry and materials. There is some support for sources and tallies for detector models. Cards/features that are not yet supported can be easily inserted as raw strings. Comprehensive examples are provided.

Full disclosure: I am the developer of the library.
 
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nikhild said:
Full disclosure: I am the developer of the library.
Welcome to PF. Thanks for the disclosure, and thanks for the useful pointer. :smile:
 
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