Development of three-dimensional seismic isolation technology for next generation nuclear power plant applications

Seismic isolation technology plays an important role in the area of architect engineering, especially in Japan where earthquake comes so often. This technology also makes the nuclear power plant rationalized. The horizontal base isolation with laminated rubber bearings has already been proven its effectiveness. These days, seismic isolation technology is expected to mitigate even the vertical load, which affects the structural design of primary components. Seismic isolation system has possibility to improve the economical situation for the nuclear power plant. From these points of view, a research project has been proceeded to realize practical three dimensional seismic isolation systems from 2000 to 2005 under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of the Japanese government. The isolation system is developed for the supposed "Fast Breeder Reactor (abbreviated FBR)" of the next generation. Two types of seismic isolation systems are developed in the R&D project. One is a three-dimensional base isolation for a reactor building (abbreviated 3D SIS) and the other is a vertical isolation for main components with horizontal base isolation of the reactor building (abbreviated V.+2D SIS). At first step of the R&D, requirements and targets of development for the seismic isolation system were identified. Seismic condition for R&D was discussed based on the real seismic response. Vertical natural frequency and damping ratio required to the system were introduced from the response to the seismic movement. As for 3D SIS, several system concepts were proposed to satisfy the requirements and targets. Through discussions and tests on performance, reliability, applicability, maintainability, "Rolling seal type air spring system with hydraulic anti-rocking devices" was decided to be developed. Verification shaking tests with the 1/7 scale model of the system and analysis for applicability to the real plant are conducted. The result shows that the system is able to support the reactor building, to suppress the rocking motion and to mitigate the vertical seismic load. As for V.+2D SIS, coned disk spring device was selected at the beginning of R&D. Performance tests of the elements, which include common deck movement, were conducted and the system applicability to the plant is confirmed. Verification tests were conducted with 1/8 scale model of the system and the result proves the applicability to the real plant.