Structural analysis of a first wall component: results of benchmark calculations Original Research Article

Fusion machines of the next generation will be operated in a cyclic mode. Under normal operation conditions the loading of the first wall is characterised by high heat fluxes. The need to compare component lifetime analyses with experimental results from high heat flux tests has been identified and a co-ordinated research program on lifetime behaviour of the first wall of fusion machines has been initiated by the International Atomic Energy Agency. On the basis of common input data, thermal and mechanical analyses of the components tested have been investigated by several participants from Japan, Russia, the Commission of the European Community, the NET team and Germany. The results of the benchmark calculations are presented. Structure mechanical tools and lifetime predictions based on several codes and rules are compared. Lifetime assessment was performed independently of the test results.