Seismic Analysis of Nuclear Power Plant Structures

Abstract

Nuclear power stations, due to the consideration of insuring public safety, must be designed to withstand the effects of postulated strong motion earthquakes. A few of the many aspects of a complete seismic analysis are discussed. The loadings on the structures are determined by a dynamic analysis. The mathematical bases for the two most common methods of analysis, the response spectrum method and the time-history method, are presented. A description of an analytical model which includes the torsional response is given. There are a large number of component structures and items of equipment which cannot be included individually in the dynamic analysis of the building structures. A discussion of current methods for determining the dynamic response of these components and a suggested solution of the problem is presented. A discussion of the analysis of piping systems and soil-structure interaction is given.