Vacuum system problems of EBT: a steady-state fusion experiment

Many of the vacuum problems faced by EBT will soon be shared by other plasma devices as high-power microwave systems and long pulse lengths become more common. The solutions used on EBT (such as the raised lip with elastomer seal) are not unique; however, experience has shown that microwave-compatible designs must be carefully thought out. All details of the vacuum must be carefully thought out. All details of the vacuum must be carefully screened in advance to insure that microwaves do not leak into pumps or diagnostics where they can cause major damage. Sputter coating, which even now is noticeably present in most pulsed plasma systems, becomes much worse as systems approach steady state. And finally, radiation degradation of components which is presently a minor problem will become significant on high-power microwave-fed devices, such as EBT-P