Physics

Continuous cryogenic pellet injection system developed for tokamak fuel supply

Photos and test results of pellet injection fuel supply system. Credit: HOU Jilei

A joint research team from the Hefei Institute of Physical Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, has successfully developed a continuous cryogenic pellet injection system for tokamak fueling. This innovative system addresses key technical challenges associated with cryogenic ice formation, pellet cutting, and launch.

Cryogenic pellet injection is a cutting-edge technology in fusion research. This involves condensing hydrogen isotope gas into solid ice pellets, which are then accelerated and injected into a plasma. This method enables deep injection of particles and high fuel efficiency, making it crucial for the future of fusion reactors.

It is recognized as a key fuel technology for next-generation fusion devices such as the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER), the China Fusion Engineering Test Reactor (CFETR), and the European Demonstration Fusion Reactor (EU-DEMO). .

The new system can fire pellets with a volume of up to 12 mm³ per shot, and the firing frequency can be adjusted in the range 1 to 10 Hz. Furthermore, maximum pellet speeds of over 300 m/s can be achieved, comparable to the performance of international counterparts.

The system recently passed factory acceptance testing on the first try.

According to the research team, this system will soon be installed on the EAST tokamak and will contribute to high-density and highly confined plasma experiments.

Provided by Chinese Academy of Sciences

Citation: Continuous Cryogenic Pellet Injection System Developed for Tokamak Fueling (January 15, 2025) https://phys.org/news/2025-01-cryogenic-pellet-tokamak-fueling.html 2025 Retrieved January 15th

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