Fusor Forums

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?

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!

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

Thanks Richard! I will spend more time researching the FAQ's and dig deeper!