A novel remote detection method for inner leak location in a tokamak: Theory and preliminary experimental validation

Abstract

In this study, a detection scheme was investigated for small leaks in tokamak vacuum chambers, and the scheme was validated theoretically and experimentally. An ultra-high vacuum should be maintained in the tokamak chamber. However, traditional methods of locating leaks in the inner vacuum chamber are usually less efficient. A leak detection scheme in the vacuum chamber was proposed in this study. Locating leaks by scanning the vacuum chamber wall with a multi-degree-of-freedom robot arm. Moreover, a small vacuum chamber was adopted to perform a leak test at a small flow rate. The results were compared with those achieved through COMSOL, Molflow simulations, as well as theoretical calculations. Furthermore, the scenario of a small leak in the EAST vacuum chamber was simulated. Significant pressure value fluctuations were detected when the detection device passed through the area close to the leak at a reasonable detection distance.