Alcator C-Mod Weekly Highlights
                 September 27, 2010

FY2010 weeks of research operations
    Base Target: 13 weeks
    Base Completed: 16.0 weeks
    ARRA Target: 5 weeks
    ARRA Completed: 5.0 weeks
    Plasma Shots: 2599


Physics
-------

Brian Labombard presented an idea for a new active MHD antenna to excite
boundary layer turbulence and the quasi-coherent mode (QCM).  The
antenna would be configured to inductively couple to electromagnetic
turbulence with k_theta around 1.5 cm-1 at the outer-midplane - a region
in k-space that is known to play a prominent role in boundary layer
turbulence and transport, including the QCM.  To optimize coupling, the
antennna would be placed close to the last-closed flux surface (within 1
cm) by employing high-temperature, refractory materials such as
molybdenum wire and zirconia ceramic.  The antenna would replace one of
the existing AMHD antennas (lower G-H unit). and have a separate set of
molybdenum protection tiles.  A dynamic external matching network would
be used to couple power from standard 50 Ohm RF amplifiers over the
frequency range of 50 to 250 kHz.


Operations
----------

Inspection of the vessel heaters and thermocouples is complete, and we
are in the process of refurbishing this system.

Routine maintenance of the alternator including inspection and service
to the lube oil pumps, and work on the gas flow cooling system, was
completed.  The alternator is ready for operation.


ICRF Systems
------------

We continued discussions with our vendor on upgrades to ICRF power
systems including the FPA, driver, screen, and grid power supplies, and
the fast acting crowbar.

The new solid state IPA in FMIT#2 is still undergoing testing, but has
already produced the expected 10 kW of power.  Installation of the solid
state IPA for FMIT#1 is nearing the testing stage.

Work in support of the experimental program investigating rf breakdown
proceeded last week.  This work is part of an MIT graduate student's PhD
research.


Lower Hybrid System
-------------------

Our vendor has finished fabrication of two more ARRA funded klystrons,
ahead of schedule.  Pat MacGibbon will travel to the vendor's site this
week to witness their operation, and if the testing goes well, approve
shipping to MIT.


Diagnostics
-----------

Procurement of materials and fabrication of components needed to
magnetically shield the Polarimeter FIR lasers proceeded last week.  A
solenoidal magnet has been fabricated, and will be used to test the
shield in the polarimeter lab before it is installed around the lasers
in the experimental cell.


Travel and Visitors
-------------------

Martin Greenwald was at PPPL last week to make presentations to the FSP
(Fusion Simulation Project) PAC.  Earl Marmar was also there as a member
of the PAC.

Perry Phillips, UTexas, was at MIT last week to prepare the FRCECE for
operation during the up-coming run period.

Amanda Hubbard, Bill Rowan, UTexas, and Perry Phillips, UTexas, attended
the U.S. ITER Diagnostic Conceptual Design Workshop at PPPL last
week. Amanda presented her work on the Value of Using an Oblique View
for the ITER ECE diagnostic. Perry presented a talk on Hot Source
Development Progress and Issues. Bill presented a talk on the
Development Path and R&D Plans for the ITER ECE system.

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