MHD pressure drop at bare welding positions in pipes of DCLL blankets (KIT Scientific Reports ; 7636)

A systematic parametric analysis has been performed using asymptotic numerical methods for determination of MHD flows near gaps of electrically insulating inserts in well conducting pipes. Such gaps could be present at several positions in fusion blankets, where cutting and rewelding by remotely controlled tools is foreseen. Gaps in the insulation provide additional current paths which leads to increased current density and braking electromagnetic Lorentz forces.