Confinement Optimization and Analysis of Compact Stellarators Using the DKES Model
Abstract
We have recently incorporated the DKES (Drift Kinetic Equation Solver) into the suite of codes used for optimization and analysis of confinement in low aspect ratio stellarators. This model provides an efficient way to evaluate the stellarator transport coefficient matrix at arbitrary collisionalities and electric fields, taking into account the full Fourier spectrum of the magnetic field. For practical use as an optimization target, we evaluate DKES transport coefficients at relatively high collisionalities and with the ambipolar electric field set to zero (in order to expose the underlying quality of magnetic confinement). Optimizations based on this target have resulted in ~ factor of 2 improvements in confinement. Relatively good correlations are observed between DKES measures of confinement and Monte Carlo ion lifetimes. Development of DKES is also underway to analyze bootstrap currents, and development of the self-consistent electric field in compact drift-optimized stellarators.
- Publication:
-
APS Division of Plasma Physics Meeting Abstracts
- Pub Date:
- October 2000
- Bibcode:
- 2000APS..DPPHP1038S