AbstractIn principle, for given required plasma physics performance, the inputs for the design of the basic device (magnetic system + vacuum vessel) are rather well established. Conversely, for the design of the plasma facing components (PFCs) (e.g. first wall protection and divertor plates), a confirmation under the real operating conditions is required in the first stage of the machine operation. Therefore, to ensure success, the whole machine design is based upon rather conservative assumptions for the plasma physics, and the PFCs are designed to be replaceable. In the following the main features of the NET/ITER concept are described and key RD needed before starting construction is outlined.
The technology and science of steady-state operation in magnetically confined plasmas