Summary: | In nuclear fusion tokamaks, vacuum vessels must be able to withstand large disruption forces resulting from potential plasma quenches. The Liquid Sandwich Vacuum Vessel (LSVV) is a novel alternative to conventional thick steel vacuum vessels. In the LSVV design, liquid lead circulates through channels within thin walls made of silicon carbide ceramic composite (SiC/SiC). By dissipating disruption forces within the liquid lead, the SiC/SiC walls can remain thin, improving heat transfer and the overall efficiency of the fusion reactor. However, SiC/SiC’s brittleness and anisotropy present challenges in machining and manufacturing. A literature review explores existing strategies for manufacturing, machining, and joining SiC/SiC components within the nuclear fusion context. A manufacturing plan is proposed for the fabrication and joining of tubular components and walled structures with integrated channels, aiming to further SiC/SiC manufacturing capabilities for the LSVV design. Further research is necessary to develop and validate robust manufacturing and joining methods specific to the LSVV application.
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