New Zealand’s breakthrough in nuclear fusion technology

OpenStar Technologies New Zealand has taken a big step towards the development of fusion energy. This company is building a prototype of a fusion reactor called “Suspended Dipole”, which can be known as the first fusion reactor in New Zealand.

According to the scientific news department of Tekna Technology Media, the suspended dipole reactor (LDR) is an innovative technology in the field of nuclear fusion. In this type of reactor, the hot plasma is suspended around a superconducting magnet instead of being enclosed in a chamber. This method is much more efficient than traditional methods due to the use of high temperature superconductors (HTS) and a unique feeding system.

The main part of this reactor is a donut-shaped magnet called “Junior”, which is energized using flux pump technology. This magnet holds the hot plasma in place by bearing very high compressive force. To make this magnet, ReBCO superconductors have been used, which lose their electrical resistance at very low temperatures.

One of the main challenges in building this type of reactor is maintaining very low temperatures for the superconductors. To solve this problem, OpenStar uses a cooling system based on helium gas. Also, the design of this reactor is to protect the zero field area where the internal power sources are located.

The development of nuclear fusion technology can help solve the problem of energy shortage in the future. Fusion energy is recognized as a clean, safe and almost unlimited source of energy. The success of the OpenStar project could be an important step towards the commercialization of fusion energy. The use of high temperature superconductors is one of the key features of this project. These superconductors are easier to work with due to their higher operating temperatures. Also, the flux pump technology provides the possibility of supplying energy to the main magnet efficiently.

Recent developments by OpenStar Technologies show that New Zealand is making significant progress in nuclear fusion technology. This achievement can serve as a model for other countries in this field and help develop clean and sustainable energy. To see the latest news, refer to the scientific news page of Tekna Media.