PRE-OPERATIONAL TESTING OF TFTR SYSTEMS

Abstract

The Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor (TFTR) is composed of 21 major systems, all of which must function in order to meet project objectives. To assure adequate, timely and reliable function of these systems, a sequence of tests is planned for various levels of assembly. The test sequence is keyed to initial operational phases based on startup at the end of 1982. Additional tests are planned for later operational phases leading to full power performance with deuterium and tritium. Four categories of tests are included; Vendor, Construction, System and Integrated System Tests. Testing is performed by vendors to Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL) specifications for purchased equipment, by on-site subcontractors for constructed items, and by PPPL personnel for installed subsystems, systems and integrated systems. The overall test sequence is intended to expose design and fabrication problems as early as possible for corrective action to minimize impact on the schedule. Safety of personnel and equipment is a primary consideration in test planning. Personnel safety interlocks and hard-wired equipment protection interlocks are checked before operational tests are performed. Operational tests begin at low power levels and progress in steps to design levels while critical parameters are monitored. Because all aspects of TFTR operation are controlled by the Central Instrumentation, Control and Data Acquisition (CICADA) System, it is important that its computer hardware and software be available to support integrated system tests. The test plan is designed to provide that support. This paper defines the testing categories and the objectives of the test plan and presents the sequence of tests required to meet the goals of initial TFTR operation.