On the automatic control of the ITER ion cyclotron system

The ITER ion cyclotron heating system requires an efficient control system capable of: (i) providing the desired array radiation spectrum, to optimize plasma coupling and absorption and to minimize parasitic power losses in the plasma edge; (ii) maintaining the RF power flow to the plasma against significant load variations, including fast fluctuations induced by ELMs; (iii) reliably detecting and suppressing RF voltage breakdowns in the array and/or in the transmission system, to avoid local equipment damage and (iv) implementing an accurate real time record of performance. In this paper specific aspects of the tuning control system, related to recent conceptual and engineering effort [K. Vulliez, et al., Design of the ITER ion cyclotron heating launcher based on in-vessel tuning system, Article ID106C, this conference] are addressed.