Dynamic Test of a Corrugated Steel Keyworker Blast Shelter

摘要

At the time this study was initiated, civil defense planning in the United States called for the evacuation of nonessential personnel to safe host areas when a nuclear attack is probable, requiring the construction of blast shelters to protect the key workers remaining in the risk areas. A full-scale corrugated steel Keyworker blast shelter was dynamically tested using the High Explosive Simulation Technique (HEST). The test primarily investigated the structural design of the shelter and entryway, survivability of the air-moving system components, and occupant survivability. Alternate blast designs for the 18-man shelter were also tested. The test showed that the structure can withstand a 55-psi peak overpressure loading from a 1-MT nuclear detonation with only minor damage. In-structure shock was within acceptable limits for occupants. However, typical floor-mounted shelter equipment should be shock-isolated with pads to ensure survivability. Structural modifications to decrease the cost and increase the ease of installation of the structure are recommended. Keywords: Buried shelter; Corrugated steel; Dynamic testing; Key worker.