Research and Development of Three-Dimensional Isolation System

( Static Loading Test for Beyond Design Basis Conditions Using Half Scale Model)

Abstract

The seismic integrity of sodium-cooled fast reactor (SFR) designs in nuclear power plants is of paramount importance. Based on the static loading test, this study investigates the force-displacement relationship and load transference in a three-dimensional seismic isolation system that is envisaged for use in reactor buildings. In SFR designs, the necessity for thin-walled structures to maintain high-temperature structure integrity can unintentionally compromise the seismic design. Consequently, addressing horizontal and vertical seismic forces become vital for ensuring seismic resilience. Currently, there are no specific codes or standards governing the integration of Three-dimensional seismic isolation systems into nuclear reactor buildings. However, current guidelines for the design of horizontal seismic isolation systems emphasize the necessity to clarify the force-displacement relationship and load transfer under conditions of superimposed horizontal and vertical loads. This study involves static loading tests performed on a half-scale specimen, which is subjected to horizontal and vertical loads exceeding the design basis ground motions for the SFR. The findings affirm that the system's horizontal supporting function maintains the segregation of horizontal and vertical load transference, even under seismic loads that exceed the design basis ground motions.