International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER)

The Challenge

Since 2014, Tractebel and its partner, SOCOTEC, have been involved in supervising the design, testing, and commissioning of ITER, a major nuclear fusion project uniting 35 countries. The goal is to demonstrate the scientific and technological feasibility of fusion energy for peaceful purposes. ITER is set to become the world’s largest tokamak, a magnetic fusion device.

The Solution

The hydraulic performance assessment for the symmetrical replacement structure was carried out using 3D hydronumerical modeling. With adequate safety margins, the hydraulic capacity of the structure was verified for the design flood events, allowing optimization of the stilling basin length through the use of energy-dissipating elements.

The Impact

ITER represents a significant step in making nuclear fusion reactors a reality. Fusion energy promises a low-carbon, large-scale energy source based on the same principles powering the sun and stars.