The analysis of dynamically loaded non-linear structures

Abstract Small models of a proposed prestressed concrete containment structure for a sodium cooled fast breeder reactor have been made and tested. They were partly filled with water and loaded internally by detonating explosive charges. Prior to the tests the model was analysed by an axisymmetric dynamic relaxation computer program. No difficulties occurred with the analyses which were arranged to print out, inter alia, stresses, deflections and cracks at suitable time intervals during and after the pressure excursions which lasted for up to 3000 μsec. A previous paper (ref. [7]), describing the program, has shown how cracks can be calculated simply and accurately. The correlation of computer and test results is discussed.