The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor configuration evolution

The International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) conceptual design activities consist of two phases: a definition phase, completed in September, 1988, and a design phase, currently in progress. The definition phase was successful in identifying a consistent set of technical characteristics and a broad definition of the required reactor configuration and hardware. Scheduled for completion in November 1990, the design phase is producing a more detailed definition of the required components, a first cost estimate, and a description of site requirements. A major activity in the ITER design phase is the period of joint work conducted at the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics, Garching, West Germany, from June through October, 1989. An official report of the findings and conclusions of this activity will be submitted to and published by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA). Highlights of the evolution of the reactor mechanical configuration since the conclusion of the definition phase are presented