Seismic Isolation of Nuclear Plants: A World Overview

by F. F. Tajirian, Bechtel Natl Inc, United States,
J. M. Kelly, Bechtel Natl Inc, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Seismic Engineering: Research and Practice

Abstract:

The French were first to apply seismic isolation to the design of nuclear structures. Two large Pressurized Water Reactor plants (PWR) were isolated; the two unit Koeberg station in South Africa, and the four unit Cruas station in France. More recently, the main focus has been on applying seismic isolation to the design of advanced liquid metal reactors (ALMR) to reduce seismic loads, enhance safety and simplify designs. This paper reviews the overall benefits of seismic isolation and current programs which are considering seismic isolation in Europe, U.S.A., and Japan. Different designs for horizontal and vertical isolation of highly modularized compact plants and large plants are discussed, and current research and development activities are outlined. The major technical issues which need to be resolved before licensing are summarized.

Subject Headings: Seismic design | Seismic tests | Base isolation | Structural design | Seismic loads | Seismic effects | Power plants | Europe | South Africa | Africa | France | Japan | Asia

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