Studies of equilibrium in the AAEC rotamak

Abstract

A series of equilibrium configurations has been generated in the Australian Atomic Energy Commission's experimental rotamak device. All configurations have been sustained for the duration of the rotating magnetic field ( approximately 10 ms). Control of the separatrix shape from oblate to prolate, and of the separatrix position, has been demonstrated. The electron temperature, electron number density and current density profiles have been determined for a prolate equilibrium configuration (typical maximum values are Te approximately 10 eV; ne approximately 6*1018 m-3). A current carrying plasma sheath has been observed outside the separatrix. An MHD code has been used to model the equilibrium.