Taylor state merging at SSX: experiment and simulation

Abstract

We describe experiments and simulations of dynamical merging with two Taylor state plasmas in the SSX device. Taylor states are formed by magnetized plasma guns at opposite ends of the device. We have performed experiments with Taylor states of either sense of magnetic helicity (right-handed twist or left-handed twist). We present results of both counter-helicity merging (one side left-handed, the other right-handed) and co-helicity merging (both sides left-handed). Experiments show significant ion heating, consistent with magnetic reconnection. Magnetohydrodynamic simulations of these experiments reveal the structure of the final relaxed, merged state.