Design and Analysis of a High-Performance Shipping Container for Large Payloads

The packaging designated the H 1636A (Figure 1) is a high-performance packaging for large payloads. The H 1636A is 50 in. in diameter and 113 in. in length and weighs approximately 4600 lb. when empty. The design objective was to meet 1996 proposed IAEA Type C criteria for air transport of large quantities of radioactive material (RAM). That is, the package should survive the standard Type B tests and more severe tests such as an impact onto an unyielding target at 280 fils and a 1-hour jet fuel fire. The packaging consists of a large, double-walled, stainless steel outer drum filled with uniform density polyurethane foam. A stainless steel containment vessel (CV) with an inside diameter of 23 in. and a length of 78 in. carries the RAM. The CV has a nominal thickness of 0.375 in. and seals with two elastomeric 0-rings. The lid of the CV is joined to the body with a unique closure called a tape joint. The tape joint utilizes interlocking features preloaded with wedges and can withstand significant deformation. The CV is large enough to accept a variety of payloads, including damaged weapons. The packaging configuration of the payload depends on the specific type. However, in general, all payloads are surrounded by a significant amount of energy absorbing material to reduce the inertial loading in an accident.