General Atomics Plans for a Tokamak Fusion Pilot Plant

General Atomics is pursuing integrated fusion pilot plant designs that incorporate plasma physics optimization with practical engineering considerations. In order to contribute to electricity demands expected in a low-carbon energy market, fusion science and technology must be rapidly advanced and demonstrate the capability and attractiveness of fusion power. Key considerations are given to the mission and requirements for a fusion pilot plant, and the pilot plant's role in maturing a first-of-a-kind commercial fusion power plant. A 200 MWe, high power density compact advanced tokamak provides an attractive solution. Benefits and challenges associated with high magnetic field and high confinement, power exhaust solutions, efficient heating and current drive, control and diagnostics, low activation materials, and operational scenarios will be presented. Integrated simulation tools are being deployed for both rapid and comprehensive assessment of pilot plant designs, enabling trade studies and identification of particularly attractive operating scenarios. Power extraction and tritium breeding may benefit from the use of SiC-based materials, which offer advantages for the blanket concept with inherent safety benefits and high-temperature compatibility for high thermal efficiency.