Architectural development of an ST fusion device

Abstract

A recent U.S. National Academy study recommended the development of a next step Sustained High Power Density (SHPD) facility within the U.S. as an intermediate step in designing and building a Pilot Plant device [1]. Several papers have been written describing the physics [2], design [3] and engineering scoping analysis performed in developing this machine design. This paper places emphasis on the continued evolution of the architectural development of past activities to meet the requirements of an ST fusion pilot plant and power plant. The current effort centers on meeting basic physics and component requirements in a machine design that improves the chance of achieving fission level availability (95%) within an arrangement that promotes design simplicity, offsite construction with on-site modular assembly. As a prelude to both the SHPD and Pilot Plant, a scoping design of a 500MWe Spherical Tokamak Advanced Reactor (STAR) has been defined to investigate design options and physics scenarios that can successfully meet physics performance, engineering requirements and economic conditions of an ST power plant. Following a successful physics/engineering assessment, the STAR Power Plant design will be downsized to meet the specifications established in the design of a near term ST Pilot Plant