Arc security system based on harmonics detection for the Tore Supra ICRH transmitter

Since 1999 and with the help of Institut fur Plasmapbysik (IPP) Garching, we have tested in the Tore Supra (TS) Ion Cyclotron Resonance Heating (ICRH) transmitter, arc security systems based on harmonics detection in a frequency band lower than the generator frequency. These systems have some advantages in comparison with traditional protection systems, which are based on use of a level on the V-r/V-f (reflected to forward voltage ratio) calculation. After some checking for adjustment, they do not use calculation, calibration with frequency or level. They can use RF signals from directional couplers or probes, so they are fully independent of the measurement systems. The detection bandwidth is independent of the antennae working frequencies. In TS the detection principle is insensitive to the cross talk between the antennae and to the antennae Coupling variations. In 2001, we have built three systems based on our prototype in order to improve the protection of the three ICRH antennae Q1, Q2 and Q5. The RF principle used on TS ICRH transmitter is described. The results in the last 4 years on an ICRH transmitter module feeding a TS antenna are summarized and some examples typical signals are given. (c) 2007 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.