The W7-X project: scientific basis and technical realization

The Wendelstein 7-X Stellarator (W7-X) is the next step device in the stellarator line of IPP Garching. A new branch of IPP is being built at Greifswald, Germany, to house W7-X. The design of W7-X is based on physics principles, which are discussed in the light of experimental results from the W7-AS stellarator. The experiment aims at demonstrating the inherent steady state capability of stellarators at reactor relevant plasma parameters and is therefore equipped with a modular superconducting twisted coil system. The 3D magnetic configuration of W7-X asks for a special divertor solution for steady state heat removal and decoupling of the vessel wall from the plasma. The status of the design and construction of W7-X including heating systems, divertor and diagnostics is presented.