M. Hinderks et al., Improved method to demonstrate the structural integrity of high density fuel storage racks, NUCL ENG DE, 206(2-3), 2001, pp. 177-184
Reracking of existing fuel pools to the maximum extent is desirable from an
economical point of view. This goal can be achieved by minimizing the gaps
between the spent fuel storage racks. Since the rack design is aimed at en
abling consolidated fuel rod storage, additional requirements arise with re
spect to the design and the structural analysis. The loads resulting from s
eismic events are decisive for the structural analysis and require a specia
lly detailed and in-depth analysis for high seismic loads. The verification
of structural integrity and functionality is performed in two phases. In t
he first phase the motional behavior of single racks, rows of racks and, wh
ere required, of all racks in the pool is simulated by excitation with disp
lacement time histories under consideration of the fluid-structure interact
ion (FSI). The displacements from these simulations are evaluated, while th
e loads are utilized as input data for the structural analysis of the racks
and the pool floor. The structural analyses for the racks comprise substan
tially stress analyses for base material and welds as well as stability ana
lyses for the support channels and the rack outside walls. The analyses are
performed in accordance with the specified codes and standards. (C) 2001 E
lsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.