Dynamic analysis of the TFTR bumper limiter

Of the many components and systems comprising a fusion reactor like the Tokamak Fusion Test Reactor (TFTR), few, if any, are subjected to more extreme and severe conditions than the protective armor for the interior vacuum vessel wall. The primary TFTR limiter, referred to as the Phase II bumper limiter, provides protection of the inner vacuum vessel wall from neutral beam shine through, normal plamsa loads, and major disruptive instabilities. The highly transient nature of forces and temperatures induced by these conditions produces significant dynamic responses in various parts of the bumper limiter structural system. This paper addresses the incorporation of a finite element dynamic analysis in the study of bumper limiter behavior when subjected to several electromagnetic load scenarios. These loads, due to a variety of realistic plasma conditions, were used in the interactive design and optimization of limiter components and support locations and flexibilities which enable the structure to perform within established criteria.