EVALUATION OF BURIED CORRUGATED-STEEL ARCH STRUCTURES AND ASSOCIATED COMPONENTS
Abstract
Three underground corrugated-steel arch structures covered with 5 feet of earth were subjected to peak overpressures of 60 and 100 psi during Shot Priscilla at the Nevada Test Site. Essentially, it was desired to assure that Department of Defense Class II (50-psi overpressure and comparable radiations) protection is afforded by two types of 25-foot diameter, 180-degree corrugated- metal arches. Free-field overpressure was measured at the ground surface above the structures, along with pressure inside each structure, acceleration of the floor slab, arch deflection relative to the floor slab, and gamma and neutron radiation dose inside each structure. Dust was measured inside one structure. All arch structures provided adequate Class II protection for the conditions of the test. One arch structure, reinforced with steel arch ribs, withstood 100-psi overpressure (333-msec positive-phase duration) with no significant damage other than a cracked floor slab. A blast closure valve was tested in the ventilating system of one structure. Operation was satisfactory during the positive- pressure phase, but the valve leaked excessively during the negative-pressure phase. Prototype pits designed to partially shield emergency power generator sets against blast, missiles, and thermal radiation damage were tested to determine their adequacy. Damage assessment indicated significant but inadequate protection at the overpressures to which the generator sets were exposed.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 28, 1961
- Accession Number
- AD0615737
Entities
People
- E. J. Beck
- G. H. Albright
- J. C. Ledoux
- R. A. Mitchell