Rupture analysis of CuCrZr plasma facing component during a loss of flow accident in Tore-Supra

The copper chromium zirconium (CuCrZr) alloy is extensively used in the Tokamak Tore Supra as a structural material for high heat flux components (HHFC). This precipitation-hardened material has also been selected for International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) for its good thermomechanical properties at elevated temperature. During a loss of coolant occurred in Tore Supra, a brittleness rupture occurred in CuCrZr high heat flux tube structure at high temperature. The scope of the analysis presented in this paper is to describe the rupture scenario and fracture mode.