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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.
Michael G. Izenson, Javier A. Valenzuela
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 21 | Number 3 | May 1992 | Pages 1828-1834
Plasma-Facing Component | doi.org/10.13182/FST92-A29984
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
Helium cooling offers safety advantages for fusion reactors because helium is single-phase and chemically inert. The Normal Flow Heat Exchanger (NFHX) enables highly efficient heat transfer to helium with low pressure drops at high heat fluxes. Thus, the NFHX enables helium cooling of divertor panels in Tokamak reactors and potentially enhances the safety of fusion power production. This paper explains the NFHX concept, presents the current status of the technology, and shows how the NFHX can be used to cool divertor panels in Tokamak reactors.