FRC (field-reversed configuration) translation studies on FRX-C/LSM
In preparation for upcoming compression-heating experiments, field-reversed configurations (FRCs) have been translated out of the FRX-C/LSM theta-pinch source, and into the 0.4-m-id, 6.7-m-long translation region formerly used on FRX-C/T. Unlike earlier experiments FRCs are generated without magnetic tearing in the larger FRX-C/LSM source (nominal coil id = 0.70 m, length = 2 m); larger, lower-energy-density FRCs are formed: r/sub s/ approx. = 0.17 m, B/sub ext/ approx. = 0.35 T, approx. = 7 /times/ 10/sup 20/m/sup /minus/3/ and T/sub e/ + T/sub i/ approx. = 400 eV. An initial 3-mtorr D/sub 2/ pressure is introduced by either static or puff fill. Asymmetric fields from auxiliary end coils (used for non-tearing formation) provide the accelerating force on the FRC, thereby eliminating the need for a conical theta-pinch coil. An important feature is the abrupt 44% decrease in the flux-conserving wall radius at the transition between the theta-pinch and translation region, similar to that in the compressor. In this paper we review a variety of issues addressed by the recent translation experiments: translation dynamics; translation through a modulated magnetic field; stabilization of the n = 2 rotational instability by weak helical quadrupole fields; and confinement properties. Results from internal magnetic field measurements in translating FRCs may be found in a companion paper. 10 refs., 5 figs.
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-36
- OSTI ID:
- 6139499
- Report Number(s):
- LA-UR-89-869; CONF-8903100-2; ON: DE89009356; TRN: 89-011013
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: 9. U.S. compact toroid symposium, Union, WA, USA, 14 Mar 1989; Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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FIELD-REVERSED MIRROR REACTORS
PLASMA CONFINEMENT
ADIABATIC COMPRESSION HEATING
MAGNETIC FIELDS
STABILIZATION
CONFINEMENT
HEATING
MAGNETIC MIRROR TYPE REACTORS
PLASMA HEATING
THERMONUCLEAR REACTORS
700101* - Fusion Energy- Plasma Research- Confinement
Heating
& Production