Integration scenario of a distributed Traveling Wave Antenna in European DEMO

A preliminary engineering feasibility study of the integration of a Traveling Wave Antenna (TWA) in European DEMO is presented. Unlike conventional ICRF antennas in vacuum vessel ports, the TWA is embedded in blanket segments, avoiding the dimensional constraints imposed by such ports. Thus, a substantial increase in the antenna surface area can be achieved, thereby reducing the surface power density. This is particularly important for larger machines like DEMO, where higher power levels are needed for plasma heating. This work presents initial assessments of how this integration affects tritium breeding, thermo–hydraulic performance, and remote-handling compatibility of the blanket. The analysis indicated a reduction in the blanket’s tritium breeding ratio by only 2%. Thermo–hydraulic analysis indicated that the maximum temperatures obtained remain below 550◦C for a Eurofer based antenna, and the pressure drop in the antenna cooling circuit generally remains below 5 kPa. The structural checks of the antenna straps indicated compliance with the RCC-MRx design rules for monotonic damage modes under standard operating loads. The compatibility of the antenna with remote handling of the blanket segment was assessed and no fundamental incompatibility was identified for the present configuration. ... mehrThis early screening-level study aims to pave the way for further engineering refinement of the integration of TWA in DEMO.