IFMIF – Layout and arrangement of cells according to requirements of technical logistics, reliability and remote handling

The International Fusion Material Irradiation Facility (IFMIF) is designed to study and qualify structural and functional materials which shall be used in future fusion nuclear power plants. During the current engineering validation and engineering design activities (EVEDA) phase the development of e.g. an optimized layout and arrangement of the cells (Access Cell, Test Cell, and Test Module Handling Cells) is of major interest.After defining different functions for the individual cells like e.g. large scale/fine scale disassembling of test modules a first layout has been developed. This design followed requirements like having a minimum of carrier changes to avoid sources of failures. On the other hand it has had to be a compact arrangement of cells due to restrictions from plant layout. A row of changes of transfer direction, and different crane systems were the consequence.Constructive discussion with project team results in the statement, that for reasons of being reliable and fast, layout and arrangement of cells goes first, plant layout then will follow.The chance for big improvements was taken and the result was a simplified design with strong reduced number of functional elements, and increased reliability and speed.

► In a first approach, layout and arrangement of the cells followed a predetermined plant layout.
► Disadvantages in technical logistics, reliability and remote handling have been detected.
► Deliberation with project teams opened space for improvements.
► Layout and arrangement of cells have been improved by simplification of design.
► Speed and reliability have been increased significantly.