R&D on ITER in-vessel magnetic sensors

This paper summarizes the progress of R&D activities related to the design of in-vessel magnetic sensors for measurement of the equilibrium field in ITER and the associated mechanical support and connection system. The background to the design activities, developed in the last few years in the framework of several collaborations, is provided in the introduction. The paper focuses on the experimental results obtained from a set of sensor prototypes, recently manufactured and tested, and on numerical simulations performed in order to verify the compliance of the sensors with ITER requirements. The paper finally illustrates the status of the engineering analyses performed to progress the design of the support and connection system, conceived to be replaceable by remote handling. In conclusion, specific issues which require further developments to achieve the final design are outlined.