F4E invests in Vector Network Analyser for ITER and European fusion research

The ITER machine will house around 50 different diagnostics systems which will enable scientists to monitor and control the plasma during the fusion reaction. F4E is currently developing around 25% of these systems in collaboration with various European Fusion Laboratories (EFLs) and, in support of these activities, has recently invested 350 000 EUR in purchasing a Vector Network Analyser (VNA) through a Framework Partnership Agreement for R&D and design signed with Instituto Superior Técnico (IST, Portugal), Centro de Investigaciones Energéticas, Medioambientales y Tecnológicas (CIEMAT, Spain); and Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Fisica del Plasma “Piero Caldirola” (IFP-CNR, Italy).

The Vector Network Analyser measuring device will be used to qualify one of the diagnostics which will evaluate the position and shape of the plasma, namely the ITER Plasma Position Reflectometry (PPR) system. By sending radio frequency signals to the ITER plasma, and measuring the arrival time of the reflection of these signals from the ITER plasma, the PPR system will be able to give information on the location of the plasma, which needs to be controlled to avoid contact with the wall of the ITER vessel.

“The Vector Network Analyser device gives us valuable information about how the PPR components will perform in ITER when transmitting information (radio frequency signals) about the plasma. It is a one-of-a-kind tool which can measure a wide range of radio frequency signals, thus offering new capabilities to the European Fusion community”, says Paco Sánchez Arcos, F4E Technical Project Officer managing the PPR system. While the device will be kept at the IST premises in Portugal, its acquisition will benefit fusion laboratories all over Europe – access will be shared amongst other EFLs undertaking related work in support of ITER. “By purchasing this Vector Network Analyser, we also help the larger ITER family”, explains Laura Sánchez García, F4E Technical Support Officer. “We can lend it to the ITER International Organisation for their use, or to other Domestic Agencies (such as the Russian Federation and the US) in support to their contribution to ITER”.