BEN'S PROJECT SUMMARY

Description:
One of the first projects I worked on when joining as a graduate was an analysis study for a component to be used on the next large fusion device, ITER. The component in question is an ion dump which will form part of the neutral beam heating on the device.

Objectives:
The study was aimed at examining the metal fatigue behaviour of the part when subjected to repeated thermal loads, in order to evaluate a safe-lifetime over which it will not fail.

Ben’s comments:
I performed the analysis using a finite element computer modelling program. Over the course of the project my abilities with using the software improved vastly. I also learnt a great deal about using sound engineering and modelling judgement when simulating component behaviours on computer.

Although I had studied fatigue and used finite element modelling at university, working with these tools at Culham was a different experience. One of the major differences came from working more closely with colleagues than you would at university, many of them were readily available to give me information and advice. Another came from working within the framework of a design code, set out by the ITER team. Overall the project was an interesting and challenging introduction to working as a mechanical engineer at  Culham.