The electric energy needed by the ASDEX Upgrade fusion experiment to power its magnetic field coils and plasma heating facilities is supplied by large flywheel generators. An experimentation pulse in ASDEX Upgrade requires an electric power of 400 megawatts lasting 10 seconds, i.e. half as much as the whole district of Munich. Such an abrupt grid load is not permissible; so the electric energy for ASDEX Upgrade cannot be taken directly from the grid. Instead the flywheel generators gradually take the energy needed from the grid, store it and then pass it on to ASDEX Upgrade in a single pulse.
Comment on 220-ton flywheel generator in Germany
FelixCress@lemmy.world 22 hours ago
Context?
Samskara@sh.itjust.works 22 hours ago
FelixCress@lemmy.world 22 hours ago
Yes, but what is the actual purpose?
wuffah@lemmy.world 22 hours ago
To power the magnetic coils that provide plasma containment for an experimental fusion reactor, in order to research how to create a self-sustaining fusion reaction.
Such an achievement would be a watershed moment in human history, and most likely would usher in a new technological age of energy production.
ohulancutash@feddit.uk 20 hours ago
And it’s just decades away
FelixCress@lemmy.world 22 hours ago
Thank you.
dukemirage@lemmy.world 22 hours ago
I’ll not downvote a question, but rude cursing.
FistingEnthusiast@lemmynsfw.com 22 hours ago
Oh, pull the puritan stick out of your arse, you fucking wet blanket
dukemirage@lemmy.world 21 hours ago
The /s really can’t be ommitted anywhere here. There is also a significant difference between cursing and insulting, champ.
ilillilillilillililli@lemmy.world 17 hours ago
This is an interesting piece of technology and the OP wanted to share. That thing must have one hell of a clutch! Achieving controlled fusion would be a monumental feat for our species.
vk6flab@lemmy.radio 22 hours ago
The article explains precisely what it is and why … it’s even written in English.