Configuration of Flows in a Cylindrical Plasma Device

Abstract

Ion flow is studied in the cylindrical magnetized Argon plasma of the PANTA device using several experimental methods. Time delay estimation technique (TDE) is used to measure the azimuthal propagation of density fluctuations between two electrostatic probes. Ion flux is also studied in azimuthal and axial direction using a newly installed Mach probe. TDE shows velocity profiles qualitatively consistent with expected drift wave propagation and E ×B rotation. The Mach probe shows a maximum azimuthal flow and an axial flow shear close to the maximum density gradient and maximum fluctuation position. Striking differences exist in the detected axial ion flows depending on the discharge parameters. In high neutral pressure conditions reversal of axial ion flow was detected in the outer part of the plasma column. Temporal evolution of flows and fluctuations are compared as a first step to assess interplay between plasma turbulence and flows in the radial, axial and azimuthal directions.