Experimental characterisation of ITER electric cables in postulated fire scenarios

Power and control cables account for roughly 70% of all ITER fire loads. Fire experiments were executed at IRSN Cadarache to test several industrial cables in order to ensure that the specificities of the ITER project could be reflected in the forthcoming procurement phase. Experimental results are here summarised: radiative heat flux leading to pyrolysis and/or ignition, flame propagation speed, generation of heat by combustion, mass loss as well as gas and smoke releases. Also the influence on fire propagation of cable trays’ geometry has been assessed: undoubtedly, vertical cable shafts promote fire propagation. Experimental data will be used to improve the current modeling of fire phenomenology and to assess propagation/impact on ventilation systems and Safety Importance Class (SIC) components with the ultimate target to avoid any potential release of radiological inventories.