Seismic Analysis of Electrical Panel

Abstract

Equipments used at nuclear power plants require robust and reliable designs because in case of disaster, such as earthquake, small damage can turn into an unpredictable result. The analysis has been done using Finite Element Method (FEM), a common tool used for the analysis of structures. To conduct seismic analysis, it is necessary to perform modal analysis and calculate response spectrum from the Floor Response Spectrum. In the present project, data is obtained from the modal analysis using ANSYS software for panel assembly structure model. The Floor Response Spectrum (FRS) data for the geographical region where this structure will be mounted is collected. The collected data is given as input to response spectrum analysis where it subjected to these conditions. The output of this analysis determines whether the structure that has been designed is within the safety limit or not. In the present project a 3d model of the Electronic panel assembly structure is modeled using UNIGRAPHICS modeling software. The model is converted to parasolid and imported into Ansys. As a first step modal analysis has been performed to predict the fundamental frequency of the structure. Later dynamic analysis has been performed to evaluate the seismic response of the system under Operation Basis Earthquake (OBE). The response spectra used for OBE in X, Y, Z directions are given as input. The dynamic analysis has been performed to determine the stresses developed in the beam and results obtained have been compared to ASME standards. Based on the results obtained design optimization of the structure has been carried out.