3D nonlinear finite element/fracture mechanics analysis of pressurized nuclear reactor container ring

摘要

Nuclear reactor containers, without inner liners, must withstand internal pressurization with minimal leak to the outside through the cracks. This paper reports on a 3D finite element (FE) simulation of a prestressed nuclear reactor container ring subjected to internal pressure. Discrete cracks are used, and the effect of crack surface pressurization on crack openings is investigated. It is shown that the discrete crack model can provide a suitable alternative to the smeared crack one, and that for the selected ring, the effect of additional crack pressurization is minimal.