J. Plasma Fusion Res. SERIES, Vol.l (1998) 168-L7l The New Helical Plasma Device at lAE, Kyoto University

Studies of the confinement optimization of heliotron such as Heliotron E have led to the concept of "helical-axis heliotron " which is characterized by reduced neoclassical transport and enhanced beta limit with small bootstrap current. Based on these novel theoretical results, the L:1 helical-axis helio-tron experiment is being planned at the Institute of Advanced Energy, Kyoto University, with a goal of demonstrating the capability of this confinement line. The related physics and engineering design issues are discussed. Keywords: advanced helical system, helical-axis heliotron, bumpy field, plasma-energy complex system, advanced fusion material 1