Session: CS-15-02 Mechanical Properties of Nuclear Graphite and Their Implementation in Codes and Standards (Joint with MF-29) – 2

Paper Number: 105207

105207 - Simplified Method of Adjusting Weibull Threshold Parameter 

Currently, the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code Section II, Division 5, Paragraph HHA-3217 utilizes a 3-parameter Weibull distribution to characterize the strength of graphite materials. Subparagraph (g)(2) thereof requires that the designer modify the threshold parameter (S0). However, no guidance is provided to update the other parameters of the Weibull distribution following an update of S0 (i.e., 𝑆𝑐, the characteristic strength parameter, and 𝑚, the Weibull modulus or also referred to as the shape parameter). Additionally, failing to update the other parameters results in an unrealistic and overly conservative distribution; the details of which are discussed.

 

This paper provides a simple method to update the shape and characteristic strength parameters of the Weibull distribution. This method relies on a straightforward, algebraic formulation that is easy to implement and does not require access to the underlying experimental datasets. The performance of the method is evaluated and shown to compare favorably with maximum likelihood estimate (MLE) optimization using both simulated and experimental data. Differences between methods tend to be on the order of a few percent and are completely negligible for small changes to S0. Moreover, any deviations are further shown to be conservative for the purposes of stress analysis of graphite.

Presenting Author: Michael Saitta MPR Associates, Inc.

Presenting Author Biography: Michael Saitta joined MPR Associates after receiving his B.S. and M.S. in Mechanical Engineering from Carnegie Mellon University. Since then, he has tackled numerous issues within the nuclear power industry. This work includes analysis per ASME BPVC, fluidic analysis of piping systems, and CFD/FEA modeling of complex systems.

Authors:

Michael Saitta MPR Associates, Inc.
Gwennaël Beirnaert MPR Associates, Inc.