Dynamic Analysis

This is usually less of an issue for force spectrum combinations. Normally there are no separate
spatial components to combine because X- Y- and Z-shocks are not acting simultaneously.
When there is more than one potential force load, the spatial combination method may be used
to indicate the independence of the loadings. For example, select Modal if two independent
relief valves may or may not fire simultaneously and the two shocks are defined as being in
different directions (such as X and Y). If the two valves are dependent and will definitely open
simultaneously, select Spatial. Otherwise, the direction defined for a force spectrum loading has
no particular meaning.

 Nuclear Regulatory Guide 1.92 (published in February, 1976) describes the requirements for
combining spatial components when performing seismic response spectra analysis for
nuclear power plants.
 Because all time history combinations are done algebraically (in-phase), this option has no
effect on time history results.

Spatial Combination Method (SRSS/ABS)

(Available for: Spectrum)
Specifies the method for combining the spatial contributions of the shocks in a single spectrum
load case. Select SRSS for a square root of the sum of the squares combination method. Select
ABS for an absolute combination method.
This option is only used for spectrum runs with more than a single excitation direction. Because
directional forces are usually combined vectorially, SRSS is usually the best selection. ABS is
provided for additional conservatism.
Because all time history combinations are done algebraically (in-phase) this option has
no effect on time history results.

Modal Combination Method (Group/10%/DSRSS/ABS/SRSS)

(Available for: Spectrum)
Specifies the method for combining individual modes into the total system response.
 GROUP - Grouping Method (on page 701)
 10% - Ten Percent Method (on page 701)
 DSRSS - Double Sum Method (on page 702)
 SRSS - Square Root of the Sum of the Squares Method (on page 702)
 ABS - Absolute Method (on page 703)
The response spectrum yields the maximum response at any time during the course of the
applied load, and each of the modes of vibration usually have different frequencies .As a result,
the peak responses of all modes do not occur simultaneously and an appropriate means of
summing the modal responses must be considered.
Nuclear Regulatory Guide 1.92 (published in February, 1976) defines the requirements for
combining modal responses when performing seismic response spectra analysis for nuclear
power plants. The four options presented there are available, along with one other, for modal
combinations under non-nuclear seismic and force spectrum analyses.

CAESAR II User's Guide 700