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reversed-field pinch

physics
Also known as: RFP

Quick Summary

The reversed-field pinch (RFP) is a magnetic confinement concept for fusion energy research, similar to a tokamak but with a weaker toroidal magnetic field. This configuration allows for a more compact reactor design with higher power density, utilizing copper coils instead of superconducting ones.12

In an RFP, magnetic field lines follow a tight helical path, wrapping many times in the poloidal direction before completing a loop in the toroidal direction. This contrasts with tokamaks, where the field lines wind more loosely. The RFP's design aims to overcome some of the engineering challenges associated with sustaining large plasma currents found in tokamaks.21

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