Magnetic flux trapping during field reversal in the formation of a field-reversed configuration
The flow of plasma and magnetic flux toward a wall is examined in a slab geometry where the magnetic field is parallel to the wall. Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) flow with a quasisteady approximation is assumed that reduces the problem to three coupled ordinary differential equations. The calculated behavior shows that a thin current sheath is established at the wall in which a variety of phenomena appear, including significant resistive heating and rapid deceleration of the plasma flow. The sheath physics determines the speed at which flux and plasma flow toward the wall. The model has been applied to the field-reversal phase of a field-reversed theta pinch, during which the reduced magnetic field near the wall drives an outward flow of plasma and magnetic flux. The analysis leads to approximate expressions for the instantaneous flow speed, the loss of magnetic flux during the field reversal phase, the integrated heat flow to the wall, and the highest possible magnetic flux retained after reversal.
- Research Organization:
- Spectra Technology Incorporated, Bellevue, Washington 98004
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC06-80ER53098
- OSTI ID:
- 5171506
- Journal Information:
- Phys. Fluids; (United States), Vol. 28:11
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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Flux-trapping during the formation of field-reversed configurations
Flux-trapping during the formation of field-reversed configurations
Related Subjects
PLASMA
MAGNETIC FIELD REVERSAL
MAGNETIC FLUX
MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMICS
PLASMA DRIFT
CORRELATIONS
DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
HEAT TRANSFER
PLASMA SIMULATION
SLABS
STEADY-STATE CONDITIONS
THETA PINCH
WALLS
ENERGY TRANSFER
EQUATIONS
FLUID MECHANICS
HYDRODYNAMICS
MAGNETIC FIELD CONFIGURATIONS
MECHANICS
PINCH EFFECT
SIMULATION
700101* - Fusion Energy- Plasma Research- Confinement
Heating
& Production
700105 - Fusion Energy- Plasma Research- Plasma Kinetics-Theoretical- (-1987)