Proposals for the Final Design of the ITER Central Solenoid

Abstract

The ITER central solenoid (CS) is 12 m high and 4 m in diameter. The CS consists of a stack of 6 electrically independent modules to allow control of plasma shape. The modules are compressed vertically by a pre-compression structure to maintain contact between modules. The CS conductor is CIC conductor with Nb/sub 3/Sn strands and a steel conduit. The CS model coil and insert coil test results have shown that the conductor design must be modified to achieve an operation margin. This required either to increase the cable diameter or to use strand with a higher current capability. A bronze-process (NbTi)/sub 3/Sn strand is proposed to achieve a higher critical magnetic field. A square conduit with a high Mn stainless steel is proposed as it can satisfy fatigue requirements. The inlets are in the high stress region and any stress intensification there must be minimized. The preload structure is composed of a set of tie-plates, flanges, buffer plates, and wedges. These design proposals satisfy all ITER operational requirements.