Tokamak level performance in the optimized stellarator Wendelstein 7-X with stable peaked density profiles

Progress towards achieving net gain from nuclear fusion is typically characterized by the triple product nTτ. Although stellarators have several benefits for a reactor, such as the inherent steady-state capability and the lack of disruptions, the maximum achieved triple product has historically lagged behind that of tokamaks. In the large optimized stellarator Wendelstein 7-X, a triple product of (1.10±0.15)×1020m-3keVs has recently been achieved and held stable for 1.9 s. This marks an important step in stellarator core plasma performance and puts it in line with H-mode performance in similar sized tokamaks. The progress in Wendelstein 7-X performance is due to the suppression of ion-temperature-gradient turbulence by strong density gradients. In the record case, these are maintained by a fine balance of the core particle transport and central fueling using neutral beam injection. The duration of the scenario was limited in time only by technical restrictions of the neutral beam injectors and control of the divertor heat loads. This paper presents the result in the context of the leading magnetic confinement devices along with details of the scenario.