One-region core model seismic test and analysis for HTGR core

For the aseismic design of a high temperature gas-cooled reactor (HTGR) with block-type fuel, it is necessary to predict the motion and force of core columns and blocks. To reveal column vibration characteristics in three-dimensional space and impact response, column vibration tests were carried out with a scale model of a one-region section (seven columns) of the HTGR core. The results are as follows: (1) the column has a soft spring characteristic based on blocks due to rocking motion, (2) the column has whirling phenomena, (3) the compression spring force simulating the gas pressure has the effect of raising the column resonace frequency, and (4) the vibration behavior of the stacked block column and impact responce of the surrounding columns show agreement between experiment and analysis. (author)