In recent months, the work on RFX-mod2 has focused on the assembly and positioning of the copper shell of the experiment, known as PSS – Passive Stabilizing Shell.
First, the assembly of the shell was successfully completed. This was a delicate phase of the project, where precision was paramount, especially in the measurement processes that ensure the correct assembly of all the support rings and some of the graphite first wall tiles.
After the assembly was completed, the shell was inserted into the support structure that will serve as the vacuum chamber for the experiment. The entire process was monitored with laser tracking to ensure the alignment of the shell rings with the internal supports of the structure with a minimum tolerance of just 0.5 millimeters.
Once the shell was inserted, the vacuum chamber was sealed following strict protocols to ensure vacuum integrity and structural stability.
This allowed for the verification of the operation of the helium glow discharge cleaning system, which was successful, demonstrating the reliability of the future cleaning and preparation technique for the internal surfaces of the experimental chamber. This is a crucial procedure as it will allow the removal of any impurities from the first wall during experimentation, optimizing the performance of RFX-mod2.
We now move into a new phase dedicated to the deposition of alumina on the shell before proceeding with the final assembly of the entire toroidal complex, which also includes the magnetic systems for inducing current in the plasma and its control.
These activities are the result of exceptional teamwork, captured in a group photo. It is a moment of pride and gratitude for us, acknowledging everyone who contributed to this complex high engineering project.
Special thanks to @federicorossetto
TAG: RFX-mod2