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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.
J.R. Last, E. Bertolini, M. Huguet, P.L. Mondino, P. Noll, L Sonnerup, C. Bell, T. Molyneaux
Fusion Science and Technology | Volume 15 | Number 2 | March 1989 | Pages 267-274
Results from Current Large Fusion Experiment | doi.org/10.13182/FST89-A39714
Articles are hosted by Taylor and Francis Online.
JET was designed for a plasma current of 5 MA and has operated successfully at that level. To enable JET to produce meaningful DT plasmas, it is necessary to upgrade the machine performance.1 The paper describes the effects on the poloidal and toroidal magnet systems of increasing the plasma current to 7 MA. It has not been necessary to increase the toroidal field but operation at higher plasma current increases the torque loading on the coils. In the case of the poloidal coils an increased flux swing is required so the magnetising current has been increased by 50%. Effects considered include magnetic forces and mechanical and thermal stresses in the coils. Modifications to the coil system and improvements to the power supplies that enable the new performance to be achieved are described. It is concluded that a 7 MA plasma current is feasible.