Dynamic response of the ITER tokamak during asymmetric VDEs

During the operational life of ITER, it is expected that a number of vertical displacement events (VDEs) will occur. A sub-class of these events, ‘slow’ asymmetric VDEs, is of particular interest from a structural point of view. This is because the forces generated during such events are both substantial and sufficiently long-lasting to significantly excite the structure. It is necessary to establish that the absolute and relative displacements of components, as well as internal and external forces, stay within acceptable limits during these events. Previous studies have investigated this problem using relatively simple models and non-rotating loads. A new, more detailed, 360-degree model was developed, and used to assess the effects of asymmetric VDEs. This paper presents the main results of this investigation. It is shown that the distance between the VV and the TFC at the inboard wall can decrease by as much as 19mm at the equatorial plane, and that the vertical reaction force in the Vacuum Vessel supports can reach 15 MN.