An overview of the Burning Plasma Experiment (BPX) vacuum vessel system

The vacuum vessel system (VVS), which consists of the vacuum vessel assembly, divertor and first wall assemblies, and the in-vessel remote maintenance (IVRM) capabilities is a major system of the BPX machine. The basic parameters of the VVS are presented, and the comprehensive research and development program which has been established to support the VVS design is summarized. A discussion is provided of the functional requirements of the divertor and the first wall and the machine operating modes as they relate to the divertor and limiter design. The divertor and first wall material requirements are identified, and a description of their respective configurations is included. The vacuum vessel assembly provides both the high vacuum environment required for plasma operation and the primary containment for tritium. A discussion of the engineering requirements, material selection rationale, and configuration of the vacuum vessel is provided.<
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