Wendelstein 7-X (W7-X) is a key experiment to demonstrate the reactor potential of the stellarator line by validating both the physics and technology required for steady-state operation.
Its optimised magnetic configuration aims to minimise neoclassical transport and improve fast particle confinement, while an array of modular superconducting coils provides continuous magnetic fields essential for long-pulse operation. W7-X achieved long pulses with plasma durations of up to 8 minutes, stable divertor detachment for more than 100 seconds and a high triple product that persists over several confinement times, bringing W7-X to a performance level similar to medium-sized tokamak H-mode plasmas. Coupled with powerful heating systems and comprehensive plasma diagnostics, these achievements mark significant progress towards validating a stellarator-based path to fusion.
Présenté par / Presented by :
Marcin Jakubowski
EUROfusion Task Force Leader, in charge of the Wendelstein 7-X Work Package.