The MEMOS-U code description of macroscopic melt dynamics in fusion devices

Abstract

Abstract The MEMOS-U physics model, addressing macroscopic melt motion in large deformation and long displacement regimes, and its numerical schemes are presented. Discussion is centred on the shallow water application to the metallic melts induced by hot magnetized plasmas, where phase transitions and electromagnetic responses are pivotal. The physics of boundary conditions with their underlying assumptions are analysed and the sensitivity to experimental input uncertainties is emphasized. The JET transient tungsten melting experiment (Coenen et al 2015 Nucl. Fusion 55 023010) is simulated to illustrate the MEMOS-U predictive power and to highlight key aspects of tokamak melt dynamics.