Thermo-mechanical analysis of a prototypical SiC foam-based flow channel insert

As part of the US ITER Test Blanket Module development effort several FCI concepts using a variety of porous SiC and SiC/SiC composites are being developed. In this work we report on the thermo-mechanical analysis of a SiC foam-based FCI. Prototypes of FCI segments as large as 0.12 m times 0.75 m times 0.015 m were recently fabricated and heat tested with a maximum DeltaT of ~150degC across the FCI walls. No visible damage was observed after testing. A detailed thermo-mechanical analysis of the test was conducted and results of the simulations are discussed in context of actual FCI operating conditions.