Methodological aspects for finite element modeling of lid systems for type B(U) transport packages
(2012)
The regulatory compliance of the containment system is of essential importance for the assessment
process of Type B(U) transport packages. The requirements of the IAEA safety standards for
transport conditions implies high loading on the containment system. The integrity of the
containment system has to be ensured in mechanical and thermal tests.
The containment system of German SNF and HLW transport packages usually includes bolted lids
with metal gaskets. The finite element (FE) method is recommended for the analysis of lid systems
according to the guideline BAM-GGR 012 for assessment of bolted lid and trunnion systems. FE
analyses provide more accurate and detailed information about loading and deformation of such
kind of structures. The results allow the strength assessment of the lid and bolts as well as the
evaluation of relative displacements between the lid and the cask body in the area of the gasket
groove.
This paper discusses aspects concerning FE simulation of lid systems for Type B(U) packages for
the transport of SNF and HLW. The work is based on the experiences of BAM Federal Institute for
Materials Research and Testing as the German competent authority for the mechanical design
assessment of such kind of packages. The issues considered include modeling strategies, analysis
techniques and the interpretation of results. A particular focus of this paper is on the evaluation of
the results with regard to FE accuracy, influence of the FE contact formulation and FE modeling
techniques to take the metallic gasket into account.
Methodological aspects for finite element modelling of lid systems for type B(U) transport packages
(2012)
The regulatory compliance of the containment system is of essential importance for the assessment process of Type B(U) transport packages. The requirements of the International Atomic Energy Agency safety standards for transport conditions imply high loading on the containment system. The integrity of the containment system has to be ensured in mechanical and thermal tests. The containment system of German spent nuclear fuel and high level waste transport packages usually includes bolted lids with metal gaskets. The finite element (FE) method is recommended for the analysis of lid systems according to the guideline BAM-GGR 012 for the assessment of bolted lid and trunnion systems. The FE analyses provide more accurate and detailed information about loading and deformation of such kind of structures. The results allow the strength assessment of the lid and bolts as well as the evaluation of relative displacements between the lid and the cask body in the area of the gasket groove. This paper discusses aspects concerning FE simulation of lid systems for type B(U) packages for the transport of spent nuclear fuel and high level waste. The work is based on the experiences of the BAM Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing as the German competent authority for the mechanical design assessment of such kind of packages. The issues considered include modelling strategies, analysis techniques and interpretation of results. A particular focus of this paper is on the evaluation of the results with regard to FE accuracy, influence of the FE contact formulation and FE modelling techniques to take the metallic gasket into account.