Development of Three-Dimensional Seismic Isolation Technology for Next Generation Nuclear Power Plant in Japan

Mitigation of earthquake loads by seismic isolation technology is very promising for enhanced safety and economy of the next generation nuclear reactors, through rationalized and simplified design of structures, systems and components. The horizontal base isolation with laminated rubber bearings is a proven technology and its application has been widely spread including nuclear facilities. On the other hand, significantly increased benefit of mitigated seismic loads is expected with three-dimensional (abbreviated 3D) seismic isolation, since the earthquake loads are inherently three-dimensional and the vertical component of the earthquake load sometimes plays an important role in the structural design of reactor components. From these points of view, a research project has been undertaken for the development of 3D seismic isolation technology, under the sponsorship of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry of the Japanese government. It was presented in a former conference that two types of 3D seismic isolation systems were applicable to the next generation nuclear power plants. One is 3D base isolation of a whole nuclear island, and the other is a vertical isolation system for main components with horizontal base isolation system. Among a number of proposed concepts, three were promising ideas for the 3D base isolation system (or device), i.e., “hydraulic 3D base isolation system”, “independent cable reinforced rolling-seal air spring”, and “rolling seal type air spring”. Then the last idea, i.e., “rolling seal type air spring”, was selected from above three ideas for further development. In this paper, current status of this R&D project are firstly shown. Next, the performance requirements for 3D isolation system and devices are shown. Then the developing targets for 3D isolation technology are shown. Furthermore, future plan of the project is provided.