Fusion research requires specialized optical access to high-vacuum systems, which is provided by optical viewports. These windows allow scientists to observe processes and manipulate atoms using tools such as lasers. However, the technology for these viewports can be challenging, as it requires reducing optical distortion by up to 75 percent. This challenge was addressed by the UKAEA’s Special Techniques Group, which was initially formed to tackle manufacturing issues in fusion energy development.
The group’s diffusion bonding process enables precise assembly and joining of optical materials like fused silica, quartz, sapphire, and diamond with metals such as stainless steel and titanium. This technology was funded through the UK Government Office for Technology Transfer and builds on feedback received from Project Solace to improve the design of optical viewports based on user needs.
The development of new modelling tools allowed the group to evaluate different viewport design options and reduce optical distortion significantly. Tim Bestwick, Deputy CEO for the UKAEA, highlighted the importance of these viewports for fusion research and announced plans to design ultra-low distortion viewports for quantum computers and sensors in the future. These new designs will cater to various sectors and markets globally, offering solutions to manufacturing challenges in aerospace, beam-line science, and high-power laser applications.
The Special Techniques Group at UKAEA has been at the forefront of developing innovative technologies that have revolutionized atomic research. Their expertise in manufacturing high-quality optical materials has led them to develop cutting-edge optical viewports that are widely used in various industries worldwide.
To achieve this goal, they developed a diffusion bonding process that allows for precise assembly and joining of different materials with metals such as stainless steel and titanium. This technology was funded through the UK Government Office for Technology Transfer after receiving valuable feedback from Project Solace.
Furthermore, they developed new modelling tools that allowed them to evaluate different viewport design options and significantly reduce optical distortion.
Tim Bestwick acknowledged the importance of these viewports for fusion research, announcing plans to design ultra-low distortion viewports for quantum computers and sensors in the future.
These new designs will cater to various sectors and markets globally, providing solutions to manufacturing challenges in aerospace, beam-line science, and high-power laser applications.
In conclusion, the Special Techniques Group at UKAEA has been instrumental in developing advanced technologies that have transformed atomic research. Their expertise in manufacturing high-quality optical materials has led them to develop cutting-edge optical viewports that are widely used across various industries worldwide.
