Instrumentation and control of the ITER Electrical Power Distribution System

ITER is a large-scale nuclear fusion scientific experiment; the first to produce net energy. Its control and instrumentation will be complex, unique and challenging. Integrated and automated operation will require coordination of around 200 semi-autonomous plant system instrumentation & controls (I&C). The general design philosophy and architecture of the ITER I&C system is described, designed in two distinct horizontal layers; the central layer that ensures coordination and the local layer dedicated to the individual control of each plant system. This paper outlines the process and procedures adopted to design the architecture and functional requirements of the instrumentation and control (I&C) of the ITER Electrical Power Distribution system. The paper also covers the overall I&C functions and deployment philosophy. The I&C of the Electrical Power Distribution system conforms to the standards, specifications and interfaces as set down by ITER Organization and applied by the multiple suppliers in the ITER domestic agencies (DAs). The use of substation automation standards viz. IEC 61850 system (Communication interoperability) and IEC 61226 will ensure reliable, smooth operation and maintenance of ITER's Electrical Power Distribution system.