Heat transfer and structural analysis of blanket module in coupled fields

Blanket module is an indispensable part in ITER. Mechanical behaviors of this component are affected by magneto-thermo-fluid-structure coupled fields. In this work, numerical investigations based on finite volume method and finite element method were applied to analyze PbLi flow and temperature in the liquid blanket. Flow pattern, heat transfer and structural analysis were carried out. Results show that, despite leading to negative MHD effect, stronger magnetic field plays remarkable role in fluid flow and heat transfer. Average outlet temperature and thermal efficiency will be enhanced. Meanwhile, jet flow near hot side wall will decrease FW temperature and FCI thermal stresses. Thermal expansion of FCI will also be suppressed in magnetic field. Additionally, when inlet flow velocity increase, average outlet temperature and thermal efficiency will decrease. However, less heat leak into helium can be seen in this case, and outlet power will increase. When velocity is higher than 0.06 m/s, outlet fluid will bring about 85% heat that neutronic reaction generates in blanket. In conclusion, considering FW and FCI structural safety, inlet flow velocity should be between 0.06 m/s to 0.10 m/s. In this case, both higher heat transfer performance and structural safety can be achieved.