Mechanical Analysis and Optimization of ITER Upper ELM Coil & Feeder

Abstract

International thermonuclear experimental reactor (ITER) edge localized mode (ELM) coils are used to mitigate or suppress ELMs. The location of the coils in the vacuum vessel and behind the blankets exposes them to high radiation levels and high temperatures. The feeders provide the power and cooling water for ELM coils. They are located in the chimney ports and experience lower radiation and temperature levels. These coils and feeders work in a high magnetic field environment and are subjected to alternating electromagnetic force due to the interaction between high magnetic field and alternating current (AC) current in the coils. They are also subjected to thermal stresses due to thermal expansion. Using the ITER upper ELM coil and feeder as an example, mechanical analyses are performed to verify and optimize the updated design to enhance their structural performance. The results show that the conductor, jacket and bracket can meet the static, fatigue and crack threshold criteria. The optimization indicates that adding chamfers to the bracket can reduce the high stress of the bracket, and removing two rails can reduce the peak reaction force on the two rails arising from thermal expansion.