Magnets

CEA delivers ITER cryogenic instrumentation

16 Oct 2018 - Jean-Yves Journeaux, Magnet Division
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Developing and overseeing the delivery of more than 3,000 instruments for the control and protection of the ITER magnets: members of the ITER and CEA teams, plus CEA contractors.

The ITER Organization has relied on the French CEA institute and its expertise in cryogenics and large superconducting magnets for the specialized instrumentation needed to control and protect the ITER magnets during the cooling operation. This past summer the full scope of the procurement—more than 3,000 devices—was completed on time, and to cost, quality and performance specifications.

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A temperature sensor and its support. Some 2,200 cryogenic temperature measurement chains were included in the scope of the contract between the ITER Organization and the CEA.
Cryogenic temperature chains and flowmeters are small devices that will convey accurate measurements of magnet temperature and helium flowrate from their positions inside the magnet structures, terminals and supply lines (feeders). This data is critical to ensuring that the magnets are operating under well controlled and reliable conditions, and that helium flow distribution to the magnets is correct.

The measurement solutions are based on proven technologies, augmented by specific development to meet ITER's challenging performance and environmental constraints.