Madison Symmetric Torus (MST)

Magellan 3-Star Site
[MST logo]
Key Resource

The Madison Symmetric Torus (MST) is a toroidal reversed field pinch device in the Department of Physics at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. It is a research device for the study of plasma physics and magnetic fusion energy research. After a three-year construction period, first plasma operation began in 1988. MST is a large RFP with a minor radius of 0.52 m and a major radius of 1.5 m. Although similar in size to the RFX at the University of Padua, it has a much lower volt-second capability and consequent lower plasma current (less than one megampere versus two megamperes). MST research has focused on suppressing turbulent transport and realization of the low magnetic field benefits of the RFP. The research is supported by the U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Fusion Energy Sciences.
 

[MST Vacuum Vessel]
MST Vacuum Vessel
(During Construction)

Device and Plasma Parameters

* Minor Radius: 0.52 m
* Major Radius: 1.5 m
* Wall Thickness: 0.05 m (aluminum)
* Plasma Current: < 0.65 MA
* Loop Voltage: > 5 V
* Poloidal Flux Swing: 2 Wb
* Pulse Length: < 90 ms
* Electron Temperature: < 600 eV
* Ion Temperature: < 350 eV
* Electron Density: < 4 x 1013 / cc
* Poloidal Beta: < 10%
* Energy Confinement Time: < 5 ms
[MST Layout Drawing]
MST Layout Drawing

Additional Information

* Frequently asked questions
* Information for prospective graduate students
* Employment opportunities
* MST logo (high resolution)
* Other plasma/fusion programs on campus
* Plasma Physics Group
* Recent MST publications
* MST posters and documents
* RFP bibliography
* Diagnostic neutral beams
 
[MST Device]
Madison Symmetric Torus
(During Installation)

Senior Staff

* D. J. Den Hartog
* G. Fiksel
* C. B. Forest
* J. F. Laufenberg
* T. W. Lovell
* S. C. Prager
* J. S. Sarff
* Carl Sovinec
* J. C. Sprott
 
[MST Device]
Madison Symmetric Torus
(1996)


This document created and maintained by J. C. Sprott.
Send comments to sprott@physics.wisc.edu.