Mechanical Design of Formers for Winding of Various Magnets

Abstract

The Institute of Plasma Research is working on development of fusion relevant superconducting magnets and its associated technologies. To generate high magnetic field in tokamak as well as in plasma accelerator, solenoid and triangular shaped magnets are used with respect to design configuration and operation requirements. The manufacturing of these types of magnets requires precision winding of conductor to achieve required magnetic field with respect to desired quality. While winding the conductor, the elastic-plastic deformation takes place that may induce spring back action. Due to the spring back, the final size or shape of the coil may vary from the desired one which in turn affects field quality. The present project focuses on the design of former which is most critical component for manufacturing of magnets. The design of former is carried out using analytical as well as design by analysis approach for optimization considering their shapes and sizes. The effect of bending forces, bending radius, spring back with respect to conductor properties and distribution of stress are investigated using FEA. The integration and interfacing of design of formers for solenoid and triangular magnets will be investigated to install them by modifying existing winding machine at Institute for Plasma Research.