Calculation and Optimization of ITER Upper VS Feeder Under an Electromagnetic Load

Abstract

The upper vertical stability (VS) feeder is a part connected to the upper VS coil by a welding joint. The function of the feeder is to transfer current and coolant water to the VS coil. A giant electromagnetic force will be generated during normal operation by the current flowing in the VS coils, interacting with the external background field. The Lorentz force will induce Tresca stress in the feeder. The amplitudes of the magnetic field and Lorentz force along the conductor running direction have been calculated based on Maxwell's equations. To extract the Tresca stress in the feeder, a finite element model was created using the software ANSYS and an electromagnetic load was applied on the model. According to the analytical design, the stresses were classified and evaluated based on ASME. In order to reduce the Tresca stress, some optimization works have been done and the Tresca stress has had a significant reduction in the optimized model. This analytical work figured out the stress distribution in the feeder and checked the feasibility of the prototype design model. The ANSYS analysis results will provide a guidance for later improvement and fabrication.