Automated analysis of multiple-support excitation piping problems

Abstract

An automated solution algorithm is presented for the treatment of multiple-support excitation piping problems. The method is an extension of the well-known response spectrum analysis method which is routinely used for seismic analysis of structural systems. The new algorithm was incorporated in Kraftwerk Union's proprietary computer code KWUROHR for static and dynamic analysis of piping systems. In this paper the numerical results from the use of envelope and multiple-support acceleration input spectra are presented for two typical piping systems in nuclear power plants. From the comparison of these results it becomes obvious that the multiple-support excitation method should be recommended as standard analysis procedure for systems attached to support points which are subjected to different acceleration spectra. The additional computer cost is negligible.