Design, manufacture and testing of the IFMIF lithium target bayonet concept

In the frame of the IFMIF R&D activities program a prototype of a replaceable backplate, based on the so called "bayonet concept", has been developed, manufactured and tested. This concept allows the backplate replacement inside the target assembly while working laterally to the target, using a set of dedicated devices. The prototype design utilises an innovative closing and tightening system. The feasibility of the bayonet concept has been assessed and the remote handling trials carried out during 2003 have successfully demonstrated the maintainability requirements and procedures specification. This paper focuses on the design and manufacturing of the bayonet concept prototype and on the related remote handling trials carried out. The overall results of the activities are also reported. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.