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Seismic Analysis Used to Re-Qualify Pumps for Nuclear Service

Synopsis Using seismic analysis, a customer used modified pumps from an idle nuclear plant for essential water service at an active nuclear power plant. Recommendations Flowserve nuclear class engineering analysis provided a comparison between seismic spectra and civil constructions. Resultant pump modifications and re-qualification eliminated the need to invest in new equipment. Situation The structural and seismic qualification was based on a threedimensional finite element model. Simulations showed that the replacement pumps could suffer from some structural resonance. Several pump components and the interconnections between them were fortified, altering the potentially hazardous natural frequencies. The calculated dynamic behavior was checked by means of an experimental modal analysis in addition to field performance tests.

Theoretical modal analysis showed first bending in the horizontal plane

Test pump subjected to experimental modal analysis

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T E C H N I C A L

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Seismic Analysis Used to Re-Qualify Pumps for Nuclear Service

Solutions The pump dynamic behavior was evaluated according to ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code, Section III, Div. 1, Appendix N (seismic analysis) and Appendix I (fatigue evaluation). The natural frequencies and the mode shapes were calculated and evaluated according to ASME VIII, Div. 2. The FEA calculations were performed on a parametrical three-dimensional finite element model.
Accelerometers in three directions and calibrated hammer at intermediate seismic support

While theoretical calculations were accepted as proof, the owner requested an additional experimental structural modal analysis. The combination of theoretical calculations and experimental verification was supported by the enthusiastic cooperation of end-user, engineering contractors and suppliers. This cooperation allowed successful implementation of the adaptations, subsequent qualification and performance testing to be done at the pump manufacturers shop, which resulted in installation and testing of the adapted pump on site within the refueling outage schedule.

For more information regarding this subject, contact your local Flowserve representative and reference TSB011.

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June 2004 Flowserve Corporation