Fluid-structure interaction - Numercial simulation of vibrations for nuclear pressure vessels

Nuclear capacities (reactor cores, heat exchangers, etc.) are the mechanical components of power plants or on-board propulsion reactors, and are dimensioned according to specifications that define their efficiency, longevity and operating safety. Particular attention is paid to their vibration behavior during the design phase – and operation – of power plants and reactors.

Vibration design methods for these systems are constrained by regulatory texts, and established with the help of test results and feedback, and validated by safety authorities. Some methods are based on numerical calculations, made possible by the development and constant improvement of numerical techniques. In this context, numerical simulation is increasingly used in the design phase to demonstrate and justify vibration performance. This article, aimed primarily at young engineers and researchers in the field, provides a brief review of the analytical and numerical approaches available for the study of vibrations in nuclear capacities.

Readers will find these references in the "Further reading" section of this article. An additional bibliography and links to websites provide useful resources for furthering knowledge on the subject.

Readers will also find a glossary of acronyms at the end of the article.