Theoretical models describing the impact loading of a PWR vessel head

The impact loading of a PWR vessel head caused by a postulated in-vessel steam explosion is investigated using different computational models. The results are checked by comparison with experimental findings. The calculation of a solid body impact yielded satisfactory results. The description of liquid slug impacts needs improvement. For consideration of the upper internal structures a lumped parameter model is under development. 4 refs., 9 figs., 1 tab.