Electromechanical Issues in FRC Translation and Compression on FRX-L
Author: Paul E Sieck
Requested Type: Poster Only
Submitted: 2006-12-18 17:38:33
Co-authors: T. P. Intrator, W. J. Waganaar, Los Alamos National Laboratory; C. Grabowski, Air Force Research Laboratory
Contact Info:
Los Alamos National Laboratory
P.O. Box 1663
Los Alamos, NM 87545
USA
Abstract Text:
We are currently optimizing the configuration of the FRX-L experiment at Los Alamos National Laboratory to maximize compatibility with the compression experiment at the Air Force Research Laboratory. Changes to FRX-L include the upgrade to a conical theta coil set that can be reassembled for multiple cone angles, addition of an FRC translation section with vacuum diagnostic access, and the installation of a false liner section to emulate the AFRL experiment, but with substantial diagnostic access. The supporting structure for the FRC formation and translation sections will be nearly identical for both experiments, and so it must allow installation in horizontal and vertical orientations. Each laboratory also places stiff boundaries on the structure size and impediments to construction.
This presentation focuses on the special engineering challenges presented by this redesign. A finite element analysis of the theta coils will be presented that has calculated the mechanical stresses from the magnetic field. Vacuum diagnostic access is provided via a short stainless steel vessel that also experiences large magnetic forces and is prone to buckling; this vessel has been designed for sufficient strength with minimum dissipation of the field energy. The adjustability of the theta coil (and the high risk of damage to components closer to the liner implosion) necessitates a support assembly that allows quick replacement of components while maintaining sufficient rigidity against the magnetic forces. A thorough discussion of the designs will be presented, with emphasis on solutions that have applicability to a broad range of other experiments.
Supported by DOE OFES contract DE-AC52-06NA25396
Characterization: C
Comments:
Please group with other FRX-L posters in session
