Major Considerations in Scale Modeling of Reinforced Concrete Containment Structures

by Piotr D. Moncarz, Failure Analysis Associates, Palo, Alto, CA, USA,
John D. Osteraas, Failure Analysis Associates, Palo, Alto, CA, USA,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Structural Engineering in Nuclear Facilities

Abstract:

Reinforced concrete containment structures pose unique modeling problems, especially when leakage integrity is of interest. This paper presents a general discussion of modeling considerations for containments and is illustrated with examples from a study conducted by the authors for Sandia National Laboratories. The process of adequate definition of the prototype structure, based on precise understanding of the problems studied, is presented. Similitude requirements imposed upon a containment model are presented and the degree to which these requirements must be followed is discussed. The influences of model material availability, of construction techniques, and of labor and material costs on model scale selection are presented. Evaluation of scale effects on cracking and model leakage response is also discussed.

Subject Headings: Scale models | Reinforced concrete | Construction materials | Structure reinforcement | Construction methods | Structural models | Material properties

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