I heard the ITER could achieve Q = 10, what about the engineering (actual) Q?

[zheng89120]

If the engineering Q is greater than 1.1 or so, does that mean the fusion problem has been theoretically solved?

 

[Drakkith]

If the engineering Q is greater than 1.1 or so, does that mean the fusion problem has been theoretically solved?

I believe so.

 

[zapperzero]

If the engineering Q is greater than 1.1 or so, does that mean the fusion problem has been theoretically solved?

The enormous investment alone should have told you that. No-one gets a blank check (15 billion dollars spent so far) just to play with magnets. ITER is as big a deal as the Fermi pile was in its day. Bigger, actually.

 

[Khashishi]

When fusion is working with net energy gain, it still needs to be able to compete economically. For that, we'll probably need a Q considerably greater than 1.1

 

[alphy]

I can confirm that ITER (International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor) is a major international project aimed at achieving sustainable fusion energy. The goal of ITER is to demonstrate the scientific and technological feasibility of fusion as a viable energy source.

The Q factor, or the ratio of fusion power produced to the power required to sustain the fusion reaction, is an important measure of the efficiency of a fusion reactor. A Q value of 10 means that for every unit of energy put into the reactor, 10 units of fusion energy are produced. This is a significant milestone that ITER aims to achieve.

However, it is important to note that the Q value is not the only measure of success for a fusion reactor. The engineering Q, which takes into account the actual performance and efficiency of the reactor, is also a crucial factor. This value is affected by various engineering challenges, such as maintaining plasma stability, controlling plasma instabilities, and managing the high temperatures and intense radiation within the reactor.

While a high engineering Q value is certainly desirable, it does not necessarily mean that the fusion problem has been completely solved. Fusion is a highly complex and challenging process, and achieving a high engineering Q value is just one step towards realizing a sustainable fusion energy source. There are still many scientific and engineering challenges that need to be addressed before fusion can become a practical energy source.

In conclusion, while a Q value of 10 is a significant achievement for ITER, it is important to continue research and development to improve the engineering Q and address other challenges in order to make fusion energy a reality.