MAKE Magazine fusor project

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Jim Enright
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Real name: Jim Enright

Re: MAKE Magazine fusor project

Post by Jim Enright »

Thanks for the great insight Richard! If we were to build the MAKE demo fusor, the inner grid is contained within a borosilicate glass vessel of 13/32" thickness. If this is not thick enough to prevent implosion, is there a precaution we could take (other than using a stainless steel housing), such as a screen to prevent injury?

In your post, you mentioned that a research grade demo fusor would require a stainless steel housing with a small viewing area. Is a video camera and TV screen required for this, or can the viewing area be just a clear viewing area? If the latter, what should be used?
“Whether you think you can, or you think you can't — you're right." Henry Ford
Jim Enright
Posts: 46
Joined: Sun Aug 04, 2019 7:12 pm
Real name: Jim Enright

Re: MAKE Magazine fusor project

Post by Jim Enright »

Thanks Richard! The MAKE demo fusor houses in inner grid in 13/32" borosilicate glass. Do you think this would be thick enough to significantly reduce the risk of implosion? If not, other than housing the inner grid in a stainless steel housing, is there anything else we can do, such as constructing a mesh shield?

When a research grade demo fusor is constructed, is it always with a video camera and TV monitor? Or can the viewing area exist without the video feed? What is the viewing area made of? Just trying to figure out if that could implode.

Thanks!
“Whether you think you can, or you think you can't — you're right." Henry Ford
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Richard Hull
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Re: MAKE Magazine fusor project

Post by Richard Hull »

There are posts about the view ports and their protection. A screen wire mesh will protect the glass if it is in contact with the shell on an SS fusor. A complete grounded screen wire mesh cylinder in the make version glass cylinder will help. The view will be restricted to a considerable degree, however.

View ports above 10kv will emit soft x-radiation which becomes very dangerous as the voltage increases. Thus, the video suggestion. Mirrors reflecting the view port image via a relay lens or telescope is another solution. One never looks at a high performing demo fusor or a real one with the naked eye. Glass bell jar like demo devices, operating under 6-7kv, are safe provide the glass is thick enough. FAQs talk about these issues.

Richard Hull
Progress may have been a good thing once, but it just went on too long. - Yogi Berra
Fusion is the energy of the future....and it always will be
The more complex the idea put forward by the poor amateur, the more likely it will never see embodiment
Jim Enright
Posts: 46
Joined: Sun Aug 04, 2019 7:12 pm
Real name: Jim Enright

Re: MAKE Magazine fusor project

Post by Jim Enright »

Thanks Richard! I will spend more time researching the FAQ's and dig deeper!
“Whether you think you can, or you think you can't — you're right." Henry Ford
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