Fabrication of super electromagnetic coil support using HIP diffusion bonding

Takahashi, Masakazu*; Masuo, Hiroshige*; Takano, Katsutoshi; Koizumi, Norikiyo

As part of the research and development of Tokamak-type nuclear fusion reactors, super electromagnetic coils are required to control the plasma reaction. The structure that supports the plasmas chamber is maintained at cryogenic temperatures in liquid helium and thus must be able to withstand the extremes of this type of environment. The most promising material for this support is, SUS316LNH and at present, the only fabrication method being employed is traditional machining from solid materials. This creates a large amount of waste material with extremely long fabrication time, due to the large size of the support at 13 m in height and 8 m in width. Therefore, it is thought that by combining machining with the HIP diffusion bonding process, both waste and fabrication time can be reduced. Although this method is still under development, it is believed that a reduction of about 50% in wasted material and an about 40% in machining time can be achieved.