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Fusion energy: Progress, partnerships, and the path to deployment
Over the past decade, fusion energy has moved decisively from scientific aspiration toward a credible pathway to a new energy technology. Thanks to long-term federal support, we have significantly advanced our fundamental understanding of plasma physics—the behavior of the superheated gases at the heart of fusion devices. This knowledge will enable the creation and control of fusion fuel under conditions required for future power plants. Our progress is exemplified by breakthroughs at the National Ignition Facility and the Joint European Torus.
D. C. Lousteau, J. N. Herndon, F. C. Davis, S. L. Schrock
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 21 | Number 3 | May 1992 | Pages 1389-1396
International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor | doi.org/10.13182/FST92-A29917
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
During the Conceptual Design Activity (CDA) for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), a tokamak reactor design was established that emphasized performance of the individual systems in a minimum overall reactor and building size. The resulting high component density arrangement dictates careful attention to assembly and maintenance (A&M) considerations in the development of the configuration. The A&M task is complicated further because remote maintenance techniques will be required in many areas of ITER after the start of deuterium-tritium operations. During die CDA, the ITER design team addressed many aspects of an overall A&M system. This paper discusses the ITER A&M philosophy that evolved, describes the ITER configuration as it relates to maintenance, and describes the procedures and equipment required for specific maintenance operations. Remote replacement of the in-vessel divertors and blanket/shield modules is discussed in detail. In addition, research and development needs for key enabling technology are addressed.