Verification of LS-DYNA Finite Element Impact Analysis by Comparison to Test Data and Classic First Principle Calculations

The Global Nuclear Fuel (GNF) RAJ-II fuel package for transportation of BWR fuel bundles is a second-generation, Type B(F), all stainless steel package designed to replace the older wooden/steel package design. The RAJ-II licensing is a collaborative effort between GNF, Westinghouse, and AREVA. During recent licensing activities in the EU, questions regarding the performance of the package during regulatory impact events were addressed. In order to evaluate the effectiveness of the RAJ-II BWR fuel container during a variety of impact conditions and orientations, a comprehensive LS-DYNA model was developed. To benchmark the model, analytical results were compared to drop test data from the RAJ-II development program and similar first generation designs. Verification of the LS-DYNA analysis was performed using first principle calculations. Because the impact absorbing materials that protect the RAJ-II are comprised of simple shapes and materials that are well characterized, the classic calculations successfully bounded the LS-DYNA and test results. This study has shown that combining finite element analysis, drop test data, and classic first principle calculations is an effective approach for evaluating and optimizing package design.