Progress on the manufacturing of ITER thermal shields

Abstract The role of the ITER thermal shield (TS) is to minimize the radiation heat load transferred from the warm components to the superconducting magnet operating at 4.5 K. Fabrication of the TS components is ongoing. Manufacturing of LCTS (Lower Cryostat TS) cylinder and VVTS (Vacuum Vessel TS) sector #6 was completed. The leak tightness of the cooling tubes, the on-site installation feasibility and the quality of the silver coated surfaces are main concerns during the manufacturing. Leak tightness of the cooling tubes is guaranteed by the test and the inspection. The surfaces of the cooling tube inside are inspected visually using the endoscope and the leak tightness has been qualified by the pressure and helium leak test. The on-site installation feasibilities are validated by the preassembly test at the factory. According to the qualified coating process, the TS panels are electro-plated with silver. This paper describes the manufacturing progress and the technical achievements.