An Overview of Advancements in the C-2W Neutral Beam Driven Field Reversed Configuration Experiment

TAE Technologies is actively pursuing an alternative approach to magnetic confinement fusion by utilizing a neutral-beam driven, field-reversed configuration (FRC) plasmas. The current experimental device, C-2W (Norman), has demonstrated significant progress in FRC performance, reliability, repeatability, and control. [1] These advancements were obtained by employing diverse methods such as shaping the magnetic field to achieve accurate and real-time manipulation of plasma length, position, and flux; precise temporal control of edge-biasing, plasma fueling, and beam energy; and enhancements in the geometries of the neutral-beam injector (NBI). Correlations have been observed between FRC performance and the modest adjustment of the neutral-beam impact parameter, leading to breakthroughs in poloidal flux generation and enabling access to stronger magnetic field strengths. An upgrade to the device has recently been implemented, involving steeper NBI injection angles, resulting in the successful sustainment of a FRC through the combination of 20° and 33° angles with high impact parameters.  This review highlights recent experimental campaigns conducted on C-2W and outlines future plans for further advancements in our ongoing efforts to support the Copernicus program.

[1] H. Gota et al., Nucl. Fusion 61, 106039 (2021).