Heat flux distribution with lower hybrid current drive in the experimental advanced superconducting tokamak

Abstract

Lower hybrid current drive (LHCD) considerably affects the heat flux distribution. This study analyzed the lower divertor target plate (LDTP) with different LHCD powers and frequencies in the experimental advanced superconducting tokamak (EAST). The analysis provided a detailed explanation of the heat flux at specific times (i.e., transformation of magnetic field configuration, LHCD starting and operating periods) and specific target locations (i.e., original strike point and second peak heat flux area). The average heat flux, average peak heat flux, and maximum peak heat flux during operation of different LHCD powers and frequencies were determined and compared. The sizes of the heat fluxes at the specific target locations were compared at different LHCD powers and frequencies. In addition to the heat flux distribution under different LHCD powers and frequencies, the heat flux distributions in electron cyclotron resonance heating (ECRH) + LHCD and in LHCD only were investigated to study the effect of ECRH on heat flux distribution. Detailed analyses of the heat flux distribution under different conditions were conducted to provide a reference for actual engineering applications.