An Efficient Algorithm for Simulating the Nonlinear, Transient Response of PreloadedStructures within a Single Application

摘要

Nuclear power plant structures are typically analyzed for either static or dynamic loading conditions. However, for certainrnaccident scenarios there are situations in which it is necessary to perform both static and transient analyses. One of these situationsrnarises when structures are under significant preload. The transient loading of mechanical components and structures is usuallyrnperformed with the assumption that there are no preloads applied to them since preloads are usually small and can be neglected.rnHowever, for certain structures used in the nuclear power industry, the preloads are significant and must be considered in therntransient analysis. Two examples of these types of structures are prestressed concrete containments and inter-compartment locks,rnwhich respond with both geometric and material nonlinearities during transient loadings. In order to handle these conditions, anrnefficient algorithm (computational engine) has been designed to first compute the response of a structure to static loading, whichrnpreloads the structure, and then, within the same computational run, computes the structural response to transient loading. Tornillustrate the benefits of the algorithm, a preloaded platen, which is part of an inter-compartment lock, is subjected to an impulsivernload. The resulting static and transient responses of the system is presented.