Validation of a numerical model of a seismically isolated, cylindrical, fluid-filled vessel

Numerical models capable of generating robust estimates of isolation-system and fluid-structure responses for multidirectional, high-intensity shaking will be required for analysis, design, and risk assessment of seismically isolated advanced reactors. None of the few studies to date on base-isolated, fluid-filled vessels have generated datasets suitable for formal validation of numerical models. Earthquake-simulator experiments on a fluid-filled, cylindrical vessel, base isolated using four single concave friction pendulum bearings (SFP isolators) were performed. The dataset was used to validate a numerical model for high intensity, multidirectional seismic inputs. Fluid and isolation-system responses obtained from analysis of the numerical model were in excellent agreement with experimental results. The numerical models and outcomes from the experiments are broadly applicable to base-isolated, fluid-filled vessels, regardless of industry sector.