Pipe connecting structure for Tokamak device
By using copper pipe fittings to connect the coil body to the tokamak device via threads and performing fusion welding at thin-walled locations, the sealing and reliability issues of the coil connection to external pipelines were resolved, achieving stable cooling and low-cost processing in high-radiation environments.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- SHANGHAI KELIN TECH DEV CO LTD
- Filing Date
- 2025-05-15
- Publication Date
- 2026-05-05
AI Technical Summary
The connection method between the coil and the external pipeline of the tokamak device has problems such as high radiation aging failure, welding causing damage to the copper lattice structure, and high processing cost.
The copper pipe fitting is connected to the coil body by threads and fused at the thin-walled section. Combined with the brazing connection of the limiting head, it ensures sealing and reliability.
It achieves reliable sealing in high-radiation environments, avoids leakage caused by aging of sealing materials, reduces processing costs, and ensures stable cooling of the coil and normal operation of the device.
Smart Images

Figure CN224203846U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to the field of pipe connection device technology, and in particular to a pipe connection structure for a tokamak device. Background Technology
[0002] Tokamak, a controlled nuclear fusion device, requires high-current coils for excitation to provide the necessary magnetic field distribution and intensity. During operation, these coils generate enormous heat loads due to the extremely high current flow. Therefore, cooling pipes need to be constructed inside the coils, and circulating coolant is injected to dissipate the accumulated heat. At the ends of these pipes on the coils, transition connections to an external piping system are required.
[0003] Conventional methods for connecting the coil's tubing to external piping include flanges, pipe threads, and direct welding. If flanges are used, they need to be machined onto the coil or sealed with a sealing ring. Machining a metal-sealed flange directly onto the coil is technically very difficult and prohibitively expensive. Using rubber sealing rings is problematic because rubber, being an organic polymer, releases gas in high vacuum environments, negatively impacting the vacuum environment. Furthermore, the tokamak generates high radiation during operation, causing the rubber ring to age and fail. Pipe threads are relatively convenient, but they typically require thread sealant or PTFE tape to prevent leaks, still facing the risk of aging due to high radiation. Direct welding is problematic because the coil's main material is copper, which has excellent thermal conductivity, while the piping system uses stainless steel. Welding requires brazing, and direct flame brazing creates a large heating zone, which can damage the copper's crystal structure (heat annealing), leading to decreased conductivity. Utility Model Content
[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a tube connection structure for a tokamak device to solve the above-mentioned technical problems.
[0005] The technical solution adopted in this utility model is as follows:
[0006] A tube connection structure for a tokamak device includes a coil body with an inner tube running through it. The inner tube also includes a tube connector. One end of the inner tube has a groove, and the tube connector is threaded into the groove. The tube connector is brazed to an external tube and fused to the coil body.
[0007] Preferably, the pipe fitting is made of copper.
[0008] Preferably, one end of the coil body is provided with an annular groove, and the inner wall of the annular groove is a first thin wall.
[0009] As a further preferred embodiment, one end of the external pipeline is disposed inside the pipe joint and is brazed to the inner wall of one end of the pipe joint, and the other end of the pipe joint is provided with a second thin wall, which contacts the first thin wall.
[0010] As a further preferred embodiment, the first thin wall and the second thin wall are fused together.
[0011] Preferably, the groove has an internal thread, and one end of the pipe joint has an external thread that mates with the internal thread.
[0012] Preferably, one end of the external pipeline is provided with a limiting head that mates with the inner wall of the pipe joint.
[0013] The above technical solution has the following advantages or beneficial effects:
[0014] In this invention, the pipe joint is connected to the internal pipeline and coil body via a threaded connection, ensuring reliable connection and preventing breakage under pressure differences. It also prevents pipeline tension from causing connection and seal failure. The thin-walled section between the pipe joint and the coil body is vacuum-sealed via fusion welding. Because the welding point is thin-walled, the welding power can be very low, resulting in low heat generation. The first and second thin-walled sections are very thin, with high thermal resistance, limiting heat diffusion and thus controlling the heating area to a very small range, avoiding damage to the coil body. Attached Figure Description
[0015] Figure 1 This is a partial sectional view of the tube connection structure of this utility model;
[0016] Figure 2 This is a partial schematic diagram of the external pipeline in this utility model;
[0017] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pipe connector of this utility model;
[0018] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the fit between the central pipe connector and the external pipeline of this utility model;
[0019] Figure 5 This is a partial schematic diagram of the internal conduit inside the coil body in this utility model;
[0020] Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the welding between the tube connector and the coil body in this utility model.
[0021] In the diagram: 1. Coil body; 2. Inner tubing; 3. Pipe connector; 4. Groove; 5. First thin wall; 6. Second thin wall; 7. Limiting head; 8. External tubing. Detailed Implementation
[0022] The technical solution of this utility model will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of this utility model. Based on the embodiments of this utility model, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this utility model.
[0023] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this utility model and simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this utility model. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," and "third" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance.
[0024] In the description of this utility model, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "joining" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this utility model based on the specific circumstances.
[0025] Figure 1 This is a partial sectional view of the tube connection structure of this utility model; Figure 2 This is a partial schematic diagram of the external pipeline in this utility model; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the pipe connector of this utility model; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the fit between the central pipe connector and the external pipeline of this utility model; Figure 5 This is a partial schematic diagram of the internal conduit inside the coil body in this utility model; Figure 6 This is a schematic diagram of the welding of the tube connector and the coil body in this utility model. Please refer to [link / reference]. Figures 1 to 6The diagram illustrates a preferred embodiment of a pipe connection structure for a tokamak device. It includes a coil body 1 with an inner conduit 2 extending through it. A pipe connector 3 is also included, with a groove 4 at one end of the inner conduit 2. The pipe connector 3 is threaded into the groove 4 and brazed to an external conduit 8. The pipe connector 3 is also fused to the coil body 1. In this embodiment, the pipe connector 3 is made of copper, the same material as the coil body 1. The inner conduit 2 is fixedly disposed inside the coil body 1. The threaded connection between the pipe connector 3 and the groove 4 on the inner conduit 2 ensures a reliable mechanical connection, preventing breakage under pressure differences and ensuring the connection and seal between the pipe connector 3 and the inner conduit 2 remain intact even when the external conduit 8 is subjected to tension. The fusion welding connection between the pipe connector 3 and the coil body 1 achieves a seal between them.
[0026] In other embodiments, there may be two pipe joints 3, distributed at both ends of the coil body 1, that is, at both ends of the inner pipe 2.
[0027] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment, an annular groove is formed at one end of the coil body 1, and the inner wall of the annular groove is a first thin wall 5. One end of the external conduit 8 is located inside the pipe connector 3 and is brazed to the inner wall of one end of the pipe connector 3. The other end of the pipe connector 3 is provided with a second thin wall 6, which contacts the first thin wall 5. The first thin wall 5 and the second thin wall 6 are fused together. The second thin wall 6 is machined at the upper end of the pipe connector 3. The second thin wall 6 has an annular design. The thickness of the second thin wall 6 must ensure both a good welding sealing effect and a small heat diffusion range during welding. The thickness of the second thin wall 6 can be set as needed. The pipe connector 3 is threaded with the groove 4 and fused together with the coil body 1, which ensures a stable connection of the pipe connector 3 and prevents loosening.
[0028] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment, the groove 4 has an internal thread, and one end of the pipe connector 3 has an external thread that mates with the internal thread on its outer wall. The end of the inner conduit 2 is machined into the groove 4, and the size and shape of the groove 4 must be adapted to the lower structure of the pipe connector 3 to ensure accurate installation of the pipe connector 3. An internal thread that mates with the lower external thread of the pipe connector 3 is machined within the groove 4. Simultaneously, an annular groove is formed at the end of the coil body 1 to create a first thin wall 5. The first thin wall 5 is annular, and its material, size, and shape are consistent with the second thin wall 6 above the pipe connector 3, preparing for subsequent thin-wall fusion welding. Both the first thin wall 5 and the second thin wall 6 are made of a high thermal resistance material.
[0029] Furthermore, as a preferred embodiment, one end of the external conduit 8 is provided with a limiting head 7 that mates with the inner wall of the pipe connector 3. The external conduit 8 is made of stainless steel, and the external conduit 8 and the pipe connector 3 are brazed together. This connection does not involve the coil body 1 and can be achieved using flame brazing. Before welding, the connection area between the external conduit 8 and the pipe connector 3 must be cleaned to remove oil, oxide layers, and other impurities to ensure welding quality. The limiting head 7 at one end of the external conduit 8 is fitted against the inner wall of the pipe connector 3, with a connection gap between the limiting head 7 and the inner wall of the pipe connector 3. A suitable brazing filler metal is used, and under flame heating, the filler metal melts and fills the connection gap to form a strong, sealed connection. During the welding process, the flame temperature and heating time must be strictly controlled to ensure brazing quality.
[0030] In use, first insert the limiting head 7 on the external pipe 8 into the pipe connector 3, and then connect and fix the external pipe 8 and the pipe connector 3 by brazing. Then, engage the external thread at the lower end of the pipe connector 3 with the internal thread in the groove 4. During the rotation of the pipe connector 3, ensure accurate alignment between the pipe connector 3 and the coil body 1 to avoid eccentricity or tilting, which would affect subsequent fusion welding and overall connection performance. After tightening the pipe connector 3, the pipe connector 3 and the coil body 1 achieve a preliminary mechanical connection, providing a stable foundation for the next step of fusion welding. Next, perform fusion welding between the first thin wall 5 and the second thin wall 6. Before welding, check the fit between the second thin wall 6 above the pipe connector 3 and the first thin wall 5 at the end of the coil body 1 to ensure that the gap between them is uniform and meets welding requirements. Select appropriate welding equipment and welding process parameters. Since the structure being welded is thin-walled, low-power welding equipment can be used to reduce heat generation. Then, the external welding equipment is activated to weld the ends of the first thin-walled section 5 and the second thin-walled section 6. During the welding process, the welding speed must be kept uniform, the welding path accurate, and the weld seam must be continuous, uniform, and free from defects such as incomplete welds or missed welds. After welding, the weld seam is visually inspected to check for surface defects such as porosity and cracks. If any problems are found, they should be repaired promptly. Simultaneously, non-destructive testing methods (such as ultrasonic testing and penetrant testing) can be used to inspect the internal quality of the weld seam to ensure a reliable welding seal.
[0031] In this embodiment, the brazing connection between the external pipeline 8 and the pipe joint 3, and the welding seal between the pipe joint 3 and the first thin wall 5 of the coil body 1, form a double reliable sealing defense. This welding sealing method can effectively resist the influence of the complex environment inside the tokamak device, especially the high radiation environment, ensuring that there will be no leakage problems due to the aging of the sealing material during long-term operation of the device, thus ensuring the sealing performance of the coolant circulation system, maintaining the stable cooling of the coil body 1, and ensuring the normal operation of the device.
[0032] In this embodiment, the first thin-walled component 5 and the second thin-walled component 6 are connected by fusion welding, which is crucial for controlling the heat-affected zone. Because the welded components are thin-walled (first thin-walled component 5 and second thin-walled component 6), lower welding power can be used, thereby reducing the heat generated during the welding process. Simultaneously, the first thin-walled component 5 and the second thin-walled component 6 themselves have relatively high thermal resistance, limiting the heat diffusion range.
[0033] In this embodiment, the pipe connector 3 is made of the same copper material as the coil body 1. This not only facilitates welding between the same materials and improves welding quality, but also reduces compatibility issues that may arise from connecting different materials. Furthermore, in the connection steps between the external conduit 8 and the pipe connector 3, which do not involve the coil body 1, a relatively simple and low-cost flame brazing method can be used, reducing processing costs. The overall structural design is reasonable, the processing technology is relatively simple, and it does not require complex and expensive processing equipment and processes, thus improving production efficiency. It has good economic efficiency and adaptability, making it suitable for widespread application in tokamak devices.
[0034] The above description is only a preferred embodiment of the present utility model and does not limit the implementation method and protection scope of the present utility model. Those skilled in the art should realize that all solutions obtained by equivalent substitutions and obvious changes made based on the description and illustrations of the present utility model should be included within the protection scope of the present utility model.
Claims
1. A tube connection structure for a tokamak device, comprising a coil body, wherein an inner tube is disposed inside the coil body, the inner tube penetrating the coil body, characterized in that, It also includes a pipe connector, one end of the inner pipe has a groove, the pipe connector is threaded into the groove, the pipe connector is brazed to the outer pipe, and the pipe connector is fused to the coil body.
2. The tube connection structure for a tokamak device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The pipe fitting is made of copper.
3. The tube connection structure for a tokamak device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, An annular groove is provided at one end of the coil body, and the inner wall of the annular groove is a first thin wall.
4. The tube connection structure for a tokamak device as described in claim 3, characterized in that, One end of the external pipeline is located inside the pipe joint and is brazed to the inner wall of one end of the pipe joint. The other end of the pipe joint is provided with a second thin wall, which is in contact with the first thin wall.
5. The tube connection structure for a tokamak device as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first thin wall and the second thin wall are fused together.
6. The tube connection structure for a tokamak device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The groove has an internal thread, and one end of the pipe joint has an external thread that mates with the internal thread.
7. The tube connection structure for a tokamak device as described in claim 1, characterized in that, One end of the external pipeline is provided with a limiting head that mates with the inner wall of the pipe joint.