Experimental studies with lead-shielded scale model shipping containers

This paper presents results of preliminary dynamic impact experiments that were conducted with replica scale models of radioactive material shipping containers for assessment of potential safety and environmental consequences. One-eighth, 1/4, and 1/2 linear scale models were fabricated and tested to predict full-scale response of shipping containers employing unbonded lead shielding. Free fall impact experiments are discussed for plain cylindrical stainless steel shells, stainless steel shells filled with lead, and replica scale models of lead-shielded shipping containers. Also, a few standard dynamic and static experiments were conducted to determine the mechanical properties of the lead and other materials used to fabricate the models. The structural response of the models was studied for free fall impact onto an unyielding surface at various drop heights, angles to the impact surface, with and without impact limiters, and with different drop pad surface composition. The test temperature range examined was between -40 and 1750C. Appropriate scale modeling laws are developed in detail in Reference 5. These are substantiated for predicting full-scale response with 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2 linear scale models