Three-dimensional dual-flow fields analysis of the DFLL TBM for ITER

Abstract

This paper concerns the design calculations and performance evaluation of the Dual Function Lithium Lead Test Blanket Module (DFLL TBM) for ITER. Detailed three-dimensional dual-flow field calculations of helium gas and lithium lead (LiPb) have been performed for the DFLL TBM. The commercial Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) code FLUENT based finite volume method Navier–Stokes solver capable of solving conjugate flow and heat transfer between dual-flow field and structure is used. The CFD calculations are conducted directly in the CAD model using the CATIA code that allows preserving the geometrical details. The computational results show that the current TBM design is reasonable under the ITER normal condition. The detailed dual-flow fields, which include temperature, velocity, pressure and heat transfer of liquid LiPb and helium gas, are presented to optimize and improve the design of DFLL TBM system for ITER, and to supply more robust database and make a significant joint contribution to the future TBM testing in EAST and ITER.