Radially keyed graphite moderator cores: an investigation into the stability of finite element models

Finite element (FE) approaches are widely used to successfully predict the behaviour of engineering structures. However, the mechanical interactions between the keys and blocks in graphite moderator cores present particular computational problems due to the large number of contacting surfaces. Such models can often be computationally unstable. In this study, modelling strategies designed to improve solution stability have been explored. Results indicate that the incorporation of inter-layer friction can significantly enhance computational stability. (authors)