Verification of the Linear Matching Method for Limit and Shakedown Analysis by Comparison With Experiments

Abstract

The linear matching method (LMM), a direct numerical method for determining shakedown and ratchet limits of components, has seen significant development in recent years. Previous verifications of these developments against cyclic nonlinear finite element analysis (FEA) have shown favorable results, and now this verification process is being extended to include comparisons with experimental results. This paper presents a comparison of LMM analysis with experimental tests for limit loads and shakedown limits available in the literature. The limit load and shakedown limits were determined for pipe intersections and nozzle-sphere intersections, respectively, thus testing the accuracy of the LMM when analyzing real plant components. Details of the component geometries, materials and test procedures used in the experiments are given. Following this a description of the LMM analysis is given which includes a description of how these features have been interpreted for numerical analysis. A comparison of the results shows that the LMM is capable of predicting accurate yet conservative limit loads and shakedown limits.