TRANSP-based optimization towards tokamak scenario development
- Lehigh Univ., Bethlehem, PA (United States)
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), Princeton, NJ (United States)
An optimization approach that incorporates the predictive transport code TRANSP is proposed for tokamak scenario development. Optimization methods are often employed to develop open-loop control strategies to aid access to high performance tokamak scenarios. Generally, the optimization approaches use control-oriented models, i.e. models that are reduced in complexity and prediction accuracy as compared to physics-oriented transport codes such as TRANSP. In the presented approach, an optimization procedure using the TRANSP code to simulate the tokamak plasma is considered for improved predictive capabilities. As a test case, the neutral beam injection (NBI) power is optimized to develop a control strategy that maximizes the noninductive current fraction during the ramp-up phase for NSTX-U. Simulation studies towards the achievement of noninductive ramp-up in NSTX-U have already been carried out with the TRANSP code. The optimization-based approach presented in this work is used to maximize the noninductive current fraction during ramp-up in NSTX-U, demonstrating that the scenario development task can be automated. An additional test case considers optimization of the current ramp rate in DIII-D for obtaining a stationary plasma characterized by a flat loop voltage profile in the flattop phase.
- Research Organization:
- Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory (PPPL), Princeton, NJ (United States); Lehigh Univ., Bethlehem, PA (United States); General Atomics, San Diego, CA (United States)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- USDOE Office of Science (SC), Fusion Energy Sciences (FES) (SC-24)
- Grant/Contract Number:
- SC0010661; FC02-04ER54698
- OSTI ID:
- 1508622
- Journal Information:
- Fusion Engineering and Design, Journal Name: Fusion Engineering and Design Journal Issue: A Vol. 146; ISSN 0920-3796
- Publisher:
- ElsevierCopyright Statement
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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