Thermo-mechanical analysis of the ICRH antenna for the ignitor experiment

This paper presents the design of the ion cyclotron resonance heating (ICRH) system of the ignitor machine. In addition, the paper presents relevant calculations and the design solutions adopted for the ICRH antenna straps. The thermal-mechanical analysis of the structure is illustrated. The displacements and stresses due to thermal loading and to dynamic loads induced during plasma vertical disruptions events (VDE) are calculated. The capability of carrying out both the assembly and maintenance of the antennas' components in full remote handling (RH) conditions is one of the specifications to which the design has to comply. A mechanical design that guarantees ease of operation is discussed. The proposed solution minimizes the variety of movements required for the manipulator.