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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.
V. Bykov, K. Egorov, J. Fellinger, J. P. Kallmeyer, F. Schauer, M. Gasparotto
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 68 | Number 2 | September 2015 | Pages 267-271
Technical Paper | Proceedings of TOFE-2014 | doi.org/10.13182/FST14-974
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
The modular stellarator Wendelstein 7-X in Greifswald, Germany, is currently in the state of commissioning. The sophisticated superconducting magnet system with 50 non-planar and 10 planar coils will be operated at 4K and has to sustain high electromagnetic loads. The likewise quite complex cryostat comprises the outer vessel, plasma vessel, and 254 ports of different types connecting the plasma and outer vessels.
The magnet and cryostat systems are instrumented with more than 800 strain gauges, distance, and contact sensors. Implementation and expected results of this extended mechanical instrumentation is the scope of this paper.