Overview of the ITER Project

Abstract

This chapter provides an overview of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). The main objective of ITER is to demonstrate the scientific and technological feasibility of fusion energy for peaceful purposes. ITER would achieve this by demonstrating controlled ignition and extended fusion burn, in inductive pulses with a flat-top duration of approximately 1000 s and an average neutron wall loading of about 1 MW/m 2. An important assumption underlying the detailed technical objectives is that there is an adequate supply of tritium from external sources of around 2-3 kg/year throughout operation. ITER is a necessary and inevitable step towards the use of controlled thermonuclear fusion power. ITER, remains to be an experimental device, produces 1500 MW power output, which is at a power reactor size. The design as a whole offers high confidence of meeting the technical and programmatic objectives. The technological needs and challenges for ITER are well characterized and rely on established approaches. Focused R&D programs are in place to apply the relevant technologies to ITER's specific needs, including, in particular, manufacturing demonstration and testing, and remote handling of key components. ITER can be the only possible through international collaboration and it represents a technical challenge which is being met by the international fusion community.