DESIGN VERIFICATION OF THE 2PACL PLANT SUPPORT STRUCTURE: FATIGUE LIFE ASSESSMENT THROUGH FEA AND VIBRATION MEASUREMENTS

This thesis, conducted at CERN in Meyrin (Geneva, Switzerland), aims to verify the structural design of the frame for the 2PACL plant, both statically and dynamically, under normal working conditions. The 2PACL (2-Phase Accumulator Controlled Loop) is a modular plant used to manage chilled CO2 for experimental purposes, with an expected operational life of at least 20 years, free from structural maintenance concerns. The focus of this thesis is the fatigue life verification of a key load-bearing component within the frame, which experiences significant stress due to operational vibrations. To ensure the long-term integrity of this component, both finite element analysis (FEA) and real-world vibration measurements were employed. The FEA simulations were conducted to predict stress distribution and fatigue life, with a detailed 3D model incorporating accurate material properties, boundary conditions, and load scenarios to simulate realistic operational stresses. A series of vibration tests were performed on the prototype structure to assess its dynamic behaviour. The results of the FEA were then compared with experimental vibration data to evaluate their correlation and identify any discrepancies. The findings of this study are expected to enhance the reliability and fatigue life of the 2PACL frame, ensuring safe and efficient operation over its intended lifespan.