Demonstration of structural performance of IP-2 packages by advanced analytical simulation and full-scale drop test

Abstract

Two new types of IP-2 (Industrial Package Type 2) to transport low and intermediate level radioactive waste (LILW) steel drums from nuclear power plants to a disposal facility have been developed in accordance with the IAEA and Korean regulations for radioactive materials. According to the regulations, both packages must preserve their structural performance after they are subjected to 0.9 m free drop tests, which are prescribed as normal conditions. In this study, an advanced analytical simulation and an evaluation process using the finite element (FE) method have been developed for the design assessment of the newly developed IP-2s. Then, analytical simulations for the various drop orientations were performed to evaluate the structural performance of the packages and demonstrate their compliance with the regulatory requirements. Also, full-scale drop tests were carried out to verify the numerical tools and modeling methodology used in the analyses and to confirm the performance of the IP-2s. In addition, parametric studies are carried out to investigate the sensitivity of the analytical variables, such as the material model and modeling methodology. In addition, this paper intends to provide basic guidance on the analytical simulation and evaluation process specifically for Korean types of transport packages, because numerous transport packages must now be developed for the various kinds of LILW that have accumulated in temporary storage facilities in Korea.