Seismic Analysis of Nuclear Power Plant Structures

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.