Fusor Grid Winding Jig

thingiverse

Create a 1.5-inch diameter internal grid for a Farnsworth Fusor using this simple experimental jig. The Fusor is a hobby nuclear fusion device that employs Inertial Electrostatic Confinement, and the central electrode is crucial for its functioning. A golf ball was initially used for winding the electrode but proved difficult to remove. To solve this problem, the jig has 16 pieces with an internal track where the wire is laid, and outer parts that guide the wire during winding. Stainless steel or tantalum wire can be utilized, with tantalum being more ductile and easier to wind. The jig forms a sphere made of three circles by weaving two wires. Assemble eight copies of the jig, secure them using 4-40 screws and nuts, cut two 14-inch long wires, mark their centers, and follow the provided winding pattern. Bend the wires at the marked center to form a tangent with the equator, then proceed eastward bending each wire 90 degrees downwards at intersections before passing under the existing wire. Continue around the equator until all wires are bent towards the south pole. Twist the wires together and disassemble the jig faces to remove the pieces without deforming the grid, which may require spot-welds for improved stability. Enjoy your fusion experimentation!