STRUCTURAL CHARACTERISTICS OF THE TPX CICC-BASED TF COIL WINDING PACK

A detailed finite element analysis of the Tokamak Physics eXperiment's (TPX) superconducting toroidal field (TF) cable-in-conduit conductor (CICC) is presented. The analysis focuses on the equatorial plane of t he inboard leg, where electromagnetic forces are the highest, and the stress field of the 84-turn conductor array can be well characterized by a 2-D model. The 40,000 element, coupled, electromagnetic and struc tural model provides a convenient means of solving for the magnetic fi eld and stress distribution in a single analysis. Particular attention is given to understanding the structural behavior of the conduit and insulation in this geometry, as the integrity of these elements is cri tical to the life of the coil system. In addition, stress data is proc essed to evaluate the conductor design relative to the TPX structural design criteria.