2015:43 Robust structural verification of pressurized nuclear components subjected to ratcheting

Background

Pressurized components in nuclear applications that are subjected to cyclic loading may exhibit progressive deformation, so called structural ratcheting. If the component is made out of a material that are deformation hardening, it may also exhibit material ratcheting.

The combined effects of structural- and material ratcheting are not taken into account in the methods and material models currently used for structural verification of pressurized nuclear components.

Objective

The project aims to develop guidelines on how to evaluate pressurized nuclear components subjected to ratcheting in a rational and conservative way that are code compliant with ASME III.