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I have a general interest in fusion energy and I'm currently looking at the 'fusion energy gain factor' (Q) of fusion reactors (the energy produced divided by the energy used to induce ignition). I'm aware that the JET recorded a Q factor of 0.7 in 1997, the ITER is anticipated to have a Q factor of 10 and the DEMO a Q factor of 25. The Q factor doesn't include the energy used to power the toroidal magnets and I would be interested to know what power these would require and by how much superconducting electromagnets would reduce energy use (power consumption being negligible in the steady field state for SC electromagnets). I've read that for a fusion power station to break even, the Q factor would have to be over 20 due to the power required for current drive, refuelling, profile control and burn control, I'd be interested to know how the factor of 20 'breaks down' regarding these different aspects of energy use (specifically the powering ot the toroidal magnets).
regards
Steve
regards
Steve
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