Acceptance tests and their results for 1st Pre-Series Cryoline (PTCL) of ITER

Abstract

The Pre-Series Cryoline (PTCL) for ITER is a representative cryoline from the complicated network of all cryolines for the ITER project. It is ~28 m in length with same cross-section (1:1) including main line (ML) and branch line (BL) as of ITER torus & cryostat cryoline. Geometrically; it has bends at different angles i.e. 90°, 120°, 135° & 160° comprising T-section & Z-section. The PTCL has been fabricated in 5 different elements based on the installation feasibility. The mechanical & instrumentation installation like sensors mounting, displacement sensors, etc. has been completed. The PTCL test has been performed after complete installation of PTCL and integration with the existing test facility at ITER-India cryogenics laboratory in order to verify the thermal performance and mechanical integrity. The primary objectives, which are evaluated during the PTCL test, are (i) Thermal performance of the PTCL (ii) Measurement of temperature profile on thermal shield of PTCL, (iii) Stress measurement at critical locations, (iv) Measurement of Outer Vacuum Jacket (OVJ) temperature during Break of Insulation Vacuum (BIV) test. The paper will summarize the methodology and observed results of PTCL.

Progress of ITER-India activities for ITER deliverables—challenges and mitigation measures

“…The design has been optimized for application of insulation layers, providing adequate flexibility and taking into account the large temperature variations, application of fixed and sliding supports in the outer pipes and optimization of the support configurations within the cryolines. The tests carried out have validated [14,15] the design considerations, provided confidence in the design and manufacturing processes and have led to the initiation of bulk production of cryolines for ITER, of which 50% of deliveries have been completed and installation activities at site have begun. Validation of the design and manufacture of more complex group-X cryolines has covered all aspects of design and manufacture of group-Y cryolines as well.…”

“…Two PTCLs, i.e. PTCL-1 and PTCL-2, from two different suppliers were manufactured and tested at the PTCL test facility in the ITER-India Cryogenics Laboratory [14,15]. Figure 8 shows a typical layout of an installed PTCL in the ITER-India Cryogenics Laboratory.…”

Status of ITER Cryodistribution and Cryoline project

“…One prototype CL, made by INOX India Limited has been has been designed, manufactured, installed at the test facility and tested for its performance for thermal and mechanical integrity. The safety test that is, 'Break of Insulation Vacuum' has been successfully conducted without any failure [7]. The design of the other prototype CL, being made by ALAT, France with the identical specification has been completed and the manufacturing at factory is also nearly completed.…”