Validation of PIRAT, a novel tool for beam-like structures subject to seismic induced misalignment of guiding sleeves

摘要

This paper is a comparison of analytical and numerical evaluations for a model system, which consists of a suspended beam-like structure, guided by a pair of sleeves subjected to transverse displacements. The goal of these analyses is to evaluate and describe the mechanical behavior of this system during situations involving significant misalignment of the guiding sleeves caused by seismic motion. The analytical evaluation of the beam is performed using a solver in the novel tool PIRAT, and the numerical calibration uses a finite element solver called Cast3M. Illustrative computations are performed in order to verify that both methods are able to produce the same results / trends using a static deformation profile for the guiding sleeves. Additionally, the preliminary dynamic response of the system is also presented. The work in this paper signifies the next step in developing a set of tools for considering dynamic responses to ensure the proper behavior of such systems during seismic activities through the use of analytical evaluations.