Magnets

The NSTX-U magnets produce magnetic fields that confine and shape the plasma. The magnet system consists of the outer poloidal field (PF) coils, outer legs of the toroidal field (TF) coils and the center stack assembly. The center stack assembly includes the inner legs of the TF coils, three inner PF coil (PF1a, PF1b, and PF1c), and the OH coil, as well as the center stack casing. 

PPPL engineers are involved in the design, manufacturing, testing and operation of the NSTX-U magnets as well as magnets for numerous other past and present experimental fusion devices. Starting with electro-magnetic field analysis, using in-house developed codes as well as commercially available tools, engineers design the magnets to meet physics requirements. The electromagnetic models are developed into physical magnet designs which must pass structural, electrical and thermal analysis.  Testing and prototyping verify that designs meet expectations. Engineers follow coils through fabrication at vendors or at the PPPL coil fabrication shop.