In this space, visitors are invited to post any comments, questions, or skeptical observations about Philo T. Farnsworth's contributions to the field of Nuclear Fusion research.Subject: Re: Another 2 cents on microwaves
Date: Aug 17, 09:09 am
Poster: Richard HullOn Aug 17, 09:09 am, Richard Hull wrote:
It was written:
>Forget simulation programs. If fusors could be simulated this forum would not exist and none of this would be of interest anyway. BTW, wouldn't most simulation programs tell you right off the top that you will achieve NO, nada , zilch, zero, DD reaction neutons below the theshhold level which if memeory serves is around 750 kev?
>
>Regards,
>Jones
I have found that simulation programs will do what ever the user wishes based on input biases, skewing of parameters, etc. You are correct in that nothing beats a test in hardware as the final arbiter.
Fusion occurs across a broad range of voltages starting with D-D around 15-18kev in a fusor (very, very low ). The collisional cross section appears to peak out about 1 mev although little is gained after about 800kev. The reaction seems to die out and actually nose drive above 2mev.
The thought of investigating microwave excitation and confinement assistance is luadable. My comments on safety are already on record. I took a really bear of a microwave course in college many low years ago. I hated it as I was a digital kind of guy. I aced the course, but remember only enough to be dangerous. You must realize that tuning of the microwave energy to the cavity (fusor chamber is critical).
Magnetrons can't be "pulled into tune" without the use of some fancy cavity or waveguide techniques. Klystrons do have a narrow span over which they can be tuned with a screw. (adjusts internal cavity spacing.) They are lower power and much safer than maggeys.
The beauty and the damnation of the fusor is it perfect spherical symmetry. This should lend itself to microwave application very well to those intent on this investigation.
Just play safe and with fore knowledge to potential problems.
Richard Hull