Seismic Instrumentation for Nuclear Power Plants

Seismic instrumentation used to measure earthquake response in a nuclear power plant is considered. Recommendations concerning the instruments to be used and their locations in the plant are presented. It is suggested that a central recording unit be placed in the control area. This unit is connected to three triaxial accelerographs which measure acceleration time history at the basement of the reactor building, high in the reactor building, and at a location outside the plant. A number of peak accelerographs placed throughout the plant are also recommended. A plan of action to be followed by the plant operator and the plant owner in case of earthquake is presented.