Plasma measurements with the TMX-U E∥B end-loss-ion spectrometers

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Abstract
Two E∥B end‐loss‐ion spectrometers (ELIS) are now making plasma measurements on tandem mirror experiment‐upgrade (TMX‐U). One instrument is mounted on each end of this open‐ended tandem‐mirror machine. These spectrometers observe plasma losses along magnetic‐field lines. They operate reliably and with a minimum of attention during an experimental run. Their data, which are quickly acquired and analyzed, help guide the experimental sequence. The parallel electric and magnetic fields separate the end‐loss ions according to mass (D+ and H+) and energy. Each spectrometer detects ions with an array of 128 flat collector plates that are made from copper‐coated G10 epoxy fiberglass, normally used for printed‐circuit boards. The ELIS diagnostic system produces a wealth of experimental information, including data on peak plasma potential, central‐cell ion temperature, potentials in the thermal‐barrier region, axial confinement and ion‐end‐loss plugging, energetic‐electron losses, and hydrogen/deuterium concentrations.

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