Experimental Seismic Study on 600 MWE CANDU Core Using Full-Scale Partial Models

Abstract

Aiming at verifying the seismic capability of the CANDU core, a test program was undertaken by EPDC in 1977. Subsequent to the 1/5 scale model test, the STEP 11 test was conducted during 1979 and early 1980 on fuzz-scale partial models.

The models were subjected to both sinusoidal and severe earthquake motions repeatedly, and as a result a number of vibration characteristics and seismic response behaviours of the core components important to seismic safety were clarified. Furthermore the insertabitity of shut-off rods during a stringent seismic event was confirmed. These findings have led to the conclusion that the CANDU core can maintain its safety function as well as its structural integrity under extremely strong notion earthquake excitation condition.