Overview
The Ion-Cyclotron Radio Frequency (ICRF) Heating & Current Drive (H&CD) System is one of the key external heating mechanisms designed for the ITER Plasma, enabling high-efficiency energy transfer to fuel the fusion process. This advanced system delivers approximately 20 MW of heating RF power, playing a vital role in achieving and sustaining the extreme temperatures required for fusion reactions.
Technical Highlights
- Heating Power: ~20 MW total (Coupled power to ITER Plasma)
- Configuration:
- 4 independent RF sources (12 MW considering losses) upto Start of Research Operation (SRO)
- 4 independent RF sources (12 MW considering losses) and one spare RF Source (3MW considering losses) after SRO
- Power per Source: 3 MW with mis-match load upto VSWR~1.5
- Frequency Range: 30–60 MHz
- Bandwidth: +/- 1 MHz at any central frequency
- Core Components: Amplifier chains, precision power supplies, control, monitoring and acquisition
Each RF source is engineered to inject high-frequency electromagnetic waves into the plasma, accelerating ions and raising the plasma temperature to fusion-relevant levels.
R&D Focus Areas
Current research and development efforts have been accopmlished with two cutting-edge RF amplifier technologies:
- Diacrode: A high-power vacuum tube offering improved efficiency and thermal handling
- Tetrode: A proven RF amplifier design being optimized for fusion-grade applications
These technologies have been refined together with following global leaders to meet the demanding operational conditions of ITER RF source and to enhance India’s capabilities in high-power RF systems through collaborative effort-
- Thales Electron Devices, France.
- Continental Electronics Corporation, USA
Developmental Approach
This project to develop ITER RF source is a national and international collaborative initiative involving:
- Thales Electron Devices, France
- Domestic Industries
Together with these industries, India is advancing its domestic expertise in RF technology, laying the groundwork for future applications in fusion energy and beyond.
Strategic Impact
The Ion-Cyclotron RF Heating System not only contributes to ITER’s mission but also promotes the development of indigenous RF technology in India. This strengthens the country’s position in the global fusion research community and fosters innovation in high-frequency power systems.