Application of Seismic Margin Assessment in a Multiple-Function Nuclear Facility

Abstract eng:
As part of an Action Plan to ensure that the lessons learned from the Fukushima accident are applied in Canada, a Seismic Margin Assessment (SMA) of the National Research Universal (NRU) reactor facility was carried out. The existing multipurpose nuclear facility was built in the 1950’s when limited seismic knowledge and less reinforcement details were required in the design. Several challenges in applying a SMA on the NRU facility are presented. The methodology used for the SMA is based on EPRI-NP-6041. Alternative criteria applied in SMA are discussed. The issues include the selection of parameters of ground motion to determine the seismic margin earthquake level. A parametric study on stiffness and load conditions was conducted to better simulate the NRU structure. The ageing effects on the compressive strength of concrete material were considered through non-destructive testing. The ductility factor based on the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) 2010 is applied in the SMA to consider nonlinear behavior of the structure. Alterative criteria are carefully examined and the deviation from the criteria provided in EPRI-NP-6041 is discussed. It is recommended that attention should always be paid to scrutinize any alternative methodologies and justifications should be provided in the selection of assessment criteria and parameters in SMA.

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