Nuclear Fusion Energy is an exciting field with the potential to provide an abundant, clean and safe source of energy for humanity. However, one of the challenges of this technology is the handling of hydrogen isotopes, which require a deep and clean vacuum environment. In this context, SAES High Vacuum plays a crucial role in developing vacuum systems that can meet these demanding requirements.

To address these challenges, SAES High Vacuum has developed a sintered alloy pump called ZAO NEG, which provides many benefits for nuclear fusion applications. The reversible sorption of hydrogen isotopes and their controlled release, coupled with its high capacity and pumping speed also for the active gases, make ZAO NEG an ideal solution for vacuum systems But the benefits don’t stop there.

SAES has also designed the distribution of ZAO NEG inside the vacuum vessel based on the pressure profile and gas load, ensuring a distributed pumping of gases throughout the system.

The ZAO NEG solution can sustain infinite sorption/desorption cycles of regeneration up to 10 Torr l/g of hydrogen isotopes and 1000 cycles of sorption/desorption cycle of regeneration up to 14 Torr l/g without losing its mechanical strength. This means that it can continue to operate effectively over time without cracking, even under extreme conditions. In terms of power requirements, SAES has minimized the energy needed for regeneration, with only 200 watts per NEG cartridge required during the regeneration process for 4-6 hours, making it a highly efficient and sustainable solution.