Publications Details

Theoretical analysis of a runaway electron suppression device

Niemer, K.A.; Gilligan, J.G.; Croessmann, C.D.; England, A.C.

A new runaway electron suppression paddle was designed with the PTA code package to reduce the runaway electron population in the Advanced Toroidal Facility (ATF), Oak Ridge National Laboratory. The PTA code package is a unique application of PATRAN, the Integrated TIGER Series, and ABAQUS for modeling high energy electron impact on magnetic fusion components and materials. By its nature, ATF is susceptible to runaway electron formation and confinement resulting in the production of a high level of hard x-rays near the machine. Four previous stainless steel paddles proved effective in reducing the runaway electron population; however, electrons above 15 MeV have still been observed. Melting and bending were observed in each of the previous paddles, reducing their effectiveness. Scoping experiments are under way to further characterize the runaway electrons in ATF. Data from these experiments will provide insight into runaway electron damage mechanisms. Proposals for the insertion of a new paddle in ATF are being considered. These analyses add to the knowledge of runaway electron damage and will aid in the design of future components to withstand runaway electron discharges in all magnetic fusion devices, including tokamaks. 8 refs., 3 figs., 1 tab.