Power Saving of Large-Scaled Helium Compressor for Fusion Device

For the purpose of reducing the power consumption of a cryogenic system for an experimental nuclear fusion system, investigation of the relationship between the ambient temperature and the mass flow rate of the compressor was carried out. When the suction gas temperature is lowered, gas density increases. The mass flow rate of the compressor can therefore be increased without any change in power consumption. It has been confirmed that some 5.6% of compressor power consumption can be saved by making the cooling water temperature equal to the ambient temperature during the winter season with the continuous running of the cooling tower fan motor. Further, a new gas compression cycle using an additional auxiliary gas cooling system was developed to lower the compressor suction gas temperature. Compared to a conventional system, some 11% of power consumption can be saved using this new gas compression cycle when the helium gas suction temperature of the compressor is 235K.