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Wilks’ formula applied to computational tools: A practical discussion and verification

Journal Article · · Annals of Nuclear Energy (Oxford)
 [1]
  1. Sandia National Lab. (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Wilks’ non-parametric approach for setting tolerance limits using order statistics has recently become popular in the nuclear industry. The method allows analysts to predict a desired tolerance limit with some confidence that the estimate is conservative. The style is popular because it is simple and fits well into established regulatory frameworks. An essential analysis of the underlying statistics is presented in this work, including a derivation, analytical and statistical verification, and a broad discussion. Possible impacts of the underlying assumptions for application to computational tools are discussed. An in-depth discussion of the order statistic rank used in Wilks’ formula is provided, including when it might be necessary to use a higher rank estimate.
Research Organization:
Sandia National Laboratories (SNL-NM), Albuquerque, NM (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE; USDOE National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA)
Grant/Contract Number:
AC04-94AL85000; NA0003525
OSTI ID:
1529145
Alternate ID(s):
OSTI ID: 1876515
OSTI ID: 22846285
Report Number(s):
SAND--2019-1901J; 672758
Journal Information:
Annals of Nuclear Energy (Oxford), Journal Name: Annals of Nuclear Energy (Oxford) Journal Issue: C Vol. 133; ISSN 0306-4549
Publisher:
ElsevierCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English