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Applications of equivalent linearization approaches to nonlinear piping systems

Conference ·
OSTI ID:505252
;  [1];  [2]
  1. Brookhaven National Lab., Upton, NY (United States)
  2. Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC (United States)

The piping systems in nuclear power plants, even with conventional snubber supports, are highly complex nonlinear structures under severe earthquake loadings mainly due to various mechanical gaps in support structures. Some type of nonlinear analysis is necessary to accurately predict the piping responses under earthquake loadings. The application of equivalent linearization approaches (ELA) to seismic analyses of nonlinear piping systems is presented. Two types of ELA`s are studied; i.e., one based on the response spectrum method and the other based on the linear random vibration theory. The test results of main steam and feedwater piping systems supported by snubbers and energy absorbers are used to evaluate the numerical accuracy and limitations.

Research Organization:
Brookhaven National Lab., Upton, NY (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
Nuclear Regulatory Commission, Washington, DC (United States)
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-76CH00016
OSTI ID:
505252
Report Number(s):
BNL-NUREG--64174; CONF-970826--6; ON: TI97004572
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English