Thermal and mechanical analysis of the ITER plasma-position reflectometry antennas

The antennas of the ITER plasma-position reflectometer are the components most exposed to the plasma. High thermal loads can cause high temperatures and excessive stress, so the first constrains on the antenna design arise from thermal simulations results. Therefore, the first step of the analysis is to develop a finite element thermal model with ANSYS. Once the temperatures are kept at acceptable levels, structural analysis is performed to know the thermal stress. Simulations performed using different materials and support structure geometries are discussed. Further, it has been checked that the components can withstand the electromagnetic loads expected during disruptions and vertical displacement events. The stress due to these electromagnetic loads is calculated analytically as well as with ANSYS simulations. The proposed antenna arrangement is properly designed against thermal and mechanical loads.