Wide-angle ITER-prototype tangential infrared and visible viewing system for DIII-D.

Area of Science:

• Plasma Physics
• Fusion Energy Research
• Diagnostic Techniques

Background:

• Tokamak devices require advanced diagnostics for plasma confinement.
• Understanding heat flux and particle losses is crucial for fusion reactor design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce and demonstrate a novel wide-angle, dual-light imaging system for tokamaks.
• To analyze plasma behavior, including heat flux profiles and fast-ion losses.

Main Methods:

• Installation of an imaging system with a tangential view of the poloidal cross-section.
• Utilizing infrared (IR) and visible light cameras separated by a dichroic beam splitter.
• Employing spatial calibration via CAD-rendered image warping to data images.

Main Results:

• The IR camera successfully mapped scrape-off layer heat flux in various plasma configurations.
• Observed fast-ion losses to the outer wall during neutral beam injection.
• Demonstrated reduced peak wall heat loading with disruption mitigation techniques.

Conclusions:

• The new imaging system provides valuable insights into tokamak plasma dynamics.
• This diagnostic is effective for studying heat flux and particle interactions.
• The system aids in developing strategies for fusion energy optimization and reactor safety.