Limits on m = 2, n = 1 error field induced locked mode instability in TPX with typical sources of poloidal field coil error field and a prototype correction coil, 'C-coil'

摘要

Irregularities in the winding or alignment of poloidal or toroidal magnetic field coils in tokamaks produce resonant low m, n = 1 static error fields. Otherwise stable discharges can become nonlinearly unstable, and locked modes can occur with subsequent disruption when subjected to modest m = 2, n = 1 external perturbations. Using both theory and the results of error field/locked mode experiments on DIII-D and other tokamaks, the critical m = 2, n = 1 applied error field for locked mode instability in TPX is calculated for discharges with ohmic, neutral beam, or rf heating. Ohmic discharges are predicted to be most sensitive, but even co-injected neutral beam discharges (at (beta)(sub N) = 3) in TPX will require keeping the relative 2, 1 error field (B(sub r21)/B(sub T)) below 2 (times) 10(sup (minus)4). The error fields resulting from ''as-built'' alignment irregularities of various poloidal field coils are computed. Coils if well-designed must be positioned to within 3 mm with respect to the toroidal field to keep the total 2,1 error field within limits. Failing this, a set of prototype correction coils is analyzed for use in bringing 2,1 error field down to a tolerable level.