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Seismic design of piping systems in the flexible range

Conference · · Am. Soc. Mech. Eng., (Pap.); (United States)
OSTI ID:5625463

Seismic design of piping systems for nuclear power plants has trended toward support of the piping such that the first fundamental frequency is above the peak acceleration frequency of the response spectra. This results in a large number of supports on typical piping systems. Since thermal expansion is usually a significant design consideration, many of the seismic supports are snubbers. Both the large number of supports and the use of snubbers has caused construction, installation, and maintenance problems. A preliminary study has been performed on both simplified and actual piping systems to evaluate seismic design in the flexible range. Based on this study, it is feasible to design piping systems with the first fundamental frequency in the 1-3 Hz range and meet seismic stress allowables. Guidelines for selection of support spacing and applicability of the flexible concept are discussed.

Research Organization:
EDS Nuclear Inc., Walnut Creek, CA
OSTI ID:
5625463
Report Number(s):
CONF-830607-
Journal Information:
Am. Soc. Mech. Eng., (Pap.); (United States), Journal Name: Am. Soc. Mech. Eng., (Pap.); (United States) Vol. 83-PVP-68; ISSN ASMSA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English