Engineering status and plans for the Fusion Ignition Research Experiment (FIRE)

The FIRE project is being pursued as a possible option for the next step in the US magnetic fusion energy program. Its goal is to develop a compact, high field, highly shaped tokamak with the following parameters: major radius, R, of 2.14 m: minor radius, a, of 0.595 m.: a toroidal field on axis of 10 T; a plasma current of 7.7 MA, a flat top time of approximately 20 s, and fusion power of 150 MW. FIRE utilizes liquid nitrogen pre-cooled copper TF and PF magnets. An important goal is a project cost of approximately $1.2B. Initial cost estimates have been produced which indicate FIRE can achieve this cost goal. More detailed cost estimates are planned in FY 02. This paper will give an overview of FIRE´s design. discuss the most significant design choices and the background for these choices, and summarizes FIRE´s cost estimates and R&D plans.