Magnetic Confinement Fusion Energy Engineering

Catalog description

This advanced graduate course covers the multifaceted design aspects of fusion reactor systems, addressing critical considerations such as plasma physics, engineering limits and tradeoffs between these constraints. The parameter requirements for ignition devices, engineering test facilities, and safety/environmental concerns, all will be addressed. The course explores magnet principles, covering resistive and superconducting magnets, along with associated cryogenic requirements. The curriculum covers blanket and first wall design considerations, encompassing both liquid and solid breeders, heat removal strategies, and structural considerations. Fueling requirements and technologies will be introduced and discussed. Additionally, the course explores heating and current drive devices, including radio frequency and neutral beam methods. Participants will develop a thorough understanding of the elements and tools involved in designing fusion reactors and have the practical experience of applying them in an assigned course research project.