Field-reversed ion ring configurations for fusion

A new project to experimentally demonstrate the formation of a field reversed ion ring, FIREX, with ∼ 1 MeV protons was launched at Cornell in August 1993. We describe the physical processes and technological constraints that have determined its design and construction which was completed early this year. The nominal parameters of the power supply for generating the proton beam needed for producing the ion ring is 1 MV, 800 kA, 130 ns. The experimental program begain in February 1996 and results at 70% full power are presented. Projections to what could be expected at full power are also outlined.