ITER central solenoid prototype sample design and three dimensional finite element modeling

In service, the ITER superconducting central solenoid (CS) experiences high level static and cyclic loading at cryogenic temperatures in high electrical fields. High operating requirements for the CS electrical insulation system make it necessary to carry out mechanical tests on some prototype samples. The goal of this work is to design a sample configuration and loading device to produce in the insulation a 3D stress similar to that in the CS during magnet system operation. For this purpose some studies on a 2D finite element (FE) models and a final study on a 3D model have been performed and some essentially 3D mechanical effects have been studied. As a result, the prototype CS sample along with the loading device have been proposed for combined electrical and mechanical testing of the CS insulation.