Seismic qualification of equipment for nuclear power plants

Safety-related equipment in a nuclear power plant is required to perform its intended functions both during and after the worst postulated earthquake for the plant site. In the United States, plant owners are required to furnish proof of qualification of the equipment for normal and abnormal conditions, including earthquakes. This is a Nuclear Regulatory Commission licensing requirement. This article gives an overview of various types of safety-related equipment in nuclear power plants and state-of-the-art seismic qualification methods. Seismic qualification requirements in applicable codes and standards is reviewed, and organizational responsibilities for equipment qualification are discussed. Requirements for seismic qualification documentation are included. 21 refs