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Magnetic and Structural Analysis with Ansys at the ITER project
ITER is the first prototype fusion reactor. One of the many technical challenges in this extremely complex machine is to confine the plasma.

ITER: An extremely complex machine

Sector: Electrical engineering/electronics, Energy supply, Machinery and plant engineeringSpecialist field: Electromagnetics, Multiphysics, Structural mechanics

The Ansys finite element program is used within the ITER project for engineering design activities and to follow up the procurement arrangements in terms of mechanical (linear and non-linear), thermal, dynamic, and electromagnetic analyses.

Summary

Task

One of the many technical challenges in this extremely complex machine is to confine a plasma of a few million degrees Celsius (C) within a magnetic confinement (Tokamak concept) created by superconducting magnets, operated at -269 C.

Solution

Set up of an electromagnetic model in Ansys for the analysis of the magnetic field and transfer of Lorentz forces onto the nonlinear structural model considering contact and large deformations.

Customer benefits

Efficient process of load transfer from the magnetic field computation of the complete coil system to the detailed model of the joint region.

Project Details

Task

The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) is the first prototype fusion reactor to demonstrate the scientific and technological feasibility of fusion energy for peaceful purposes. One of the many technical challenges in this extremely complex machine is to confine a plasma of a few million degrees Celsius (C) within a magnetic confinement (Tokamak concept) created by superconducting magnets, operated at -269 C; orders of magnitude: total mass of approx. 23 thousand tons, output power 500 MW, mass of one toroidal field coil (TF-Coil) of 360 tons, which is equal to the take-off weight of a Boeing 747. Because of its flexibility and efficiency, the Ansys finite element program is used within the ITER project for engineering design activities and to follow up the procurement arrangements in terms of mechanical (linear and non-linear), thermal, dynamic, and electromagnetic analyses. One simulation task is the design of the joint region of the TF-Coil. Lorentz forces on the conductors cause high stress on the supporting structure. Structural assessment of the joint region (e.g. bolts, housing) is necessary.


Customer Benefit

  • Efficient process of load transfer from the magnetic field computation of the complete coil system to the detailed model of the joint region.
  • Static and fatigue assessment based on their own criteria for several components, such as the conductor and bolted connections.

Solution

  • Set up of an electromagnetic model for the analysis of the magnetic field and transfer of Lorentz forces onto the nonlinear structural model considering contact and large deformations.
  • Evaluation of the deformations and performing a static and fatigue assessment based on special criteria.

Images: © ITER


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