Magnetic Field Line Topology of the Scrape-Off Layer in the Compact Stellarator NCSX

The magnetic topology of the plasma boundary of the proposed compact stellarator NCSX is investigated using the MFBE[1] and VMEC2000[2] codes. The VMEC code provides a free boundary equilibrium and the magnetics from external coils and bootstrap plasma currents inside the last closed magnetic surface (LCMS). The MFBE code uses these results to calculate the magnetic fields of these finite beta equilibria outside the LCMS in a form suitable for line tracing. The Poincaré plots of field lines started outside the LCMS indicate preservation of initial radial ordering of field lines up to intersections with vacuum vessel and plasma facing components. A large flux expansion of field lines is observed between the midplane and tips of the banana shaped cross-section, due to the presence of a nearby poloidal field null used to create the banana shape. TRIM coils used to heal islands just within the LCMS appear to reduce stochasticity just outside the LCMS as well as enhance an island structure outside the LCMS. Field lines are observed to move in and out radially as they are followed toroidally. Power and particle control design based on these observations include the limiting structure geometry and baffles designed to intersect islands outside the LCMS. [1] E.Strumberger, Nuclear Fusion 37 1997 19. [2] S.Hirshman, Comp. Phys. Commun. 43 1986 143.