A Computational Engine for the Nonlinear, Transient Response of Preloaded Structures

Abstract The transient loading of mechanical components and structures is usually performed with the assumption that there are no preloads applied to them since preloads are usually small and can be neglected. However, for certain structures used in the nuclear power industry, the preloads are significant and must be considered in the transient analysis. Two examples of these types of structures are prestressed concrete containments and inter-compartment locks, which respond with both geometric and material nonlinearities during transient loadings. An efficient computational engine is presented in this paper for the solution of these types of problems. An example is presented to illustrate the algorithm. A preloaded platen, which is part of an inter-compartment lock, is subjected to an impulsive load. The resulting transient response of the system is presented.