Recently, a research team led by Prof. HUANG Liansheng from Institute of Plasma Physics (ASIPP), Hefei Institutes of Physical Science (HFIPS) of Chinese Academy of Sciences, developed a new generation of poloidal field coil power supply (rated current ± 15kA).
Based on fully controlled devices and pulse power modulation technology, it was applied to the upgrade of EAST poloidal field PS11/PS12 power supply, the first power supply for poloidal field coil in tokamak devices adopting fully controlled power electronic devices.
The upgraded PS11/PS12 magnet power supply joined in 2022 EAST autumn operation and stably operated for 51 days and 3,402 shots. Its performance exceeded the design requirements.
In the experiment, the fully controlled pulse power modulation technology replaced thyristor phase-controlled rectifier in high-power fusion magnet power converter. It has many advantages including high efficiency, high power factor, controllable harmonics, fast response, high reliability and low embedded cost.
"We have been working on this project for 6 years," said Prof. HUANG, "4 years on research and 2 years to overcome the key technologies."
The successful development and operation of the new generation of power supplies will not only promote the engineering application of fully-controlled power conversion technology in the field of high current, but also provide a promising solution for the future fusion facilities, according to the team.
The research team has been working on this project for 6 years. (Image by CHEN Xiaojiao)
Topology and typical waveform of the New Generation of Poloidal Field Coil Power Supply. (Image by ZHU Jinwen)
