Abstract. DIII-D experiments have investigated ITER startup scenarios, including an initial phase where the plasma was limited on low field side poloidal bumper limiters. In addition, l_i feedback control has been tested with the goal of producing discharges in ITER within the capabilities of the poloidal field coil set and favourable to the intended mode of operations in the subsequent constant current (flattop) phase. These discharges have been modelled using the Corsica free boundary equilibrium code. High performance hybrid scenario discharges (β_N = 2.8, H_98,y2 = 1.4) and ITER H-mode baseline discharges (β_N > 1.6, H_98,y2 = 1–1.2) have been obtained experimentally in an ITER similar shape after the ITER-relevant startup. Studies have been initiated to develop a reliable scenario for exiting the burn phase and ramping down the plasma current in ITER without disruptions.

PACS numbers: 52.55.Fa, 52.70.Gw, 52.50.Sw

Print publication: Issue 11 (November 2009)
Received 30 March 2009, accepted for publication 16 September 2009
Published 21 October 2009