The reversed field pinch magnetic equilibrium in the high aspect ratio (R/a ≈ 8.8) Extrap T1 experiment has been studied using an insertable magnetic probe. High current density plasmas, about 14MA/m2 on axis, with reversal ratio and pinch parameter of F ≈ –0.5 and Θ ≈ 1.8, are considered. The experimental μ-configuration is found to be flat from the central region out to 0.6a, approaching zero at the wall. The pressure profile is flat in the central region, with the steepest gradient between 0.6a and 0.8a. Values of βθ = 0.16 and ⟨β⟩ = 0.07 are found. Linear stability calculations show that the measured equilibrium, given a conducting wall at the plasma boundary, is stable with respect to all current driven ideal and resistive MHD modes. However, m = 1 tearing modes resonant inside the reversal surface are close to marginal stability. When the conductivity of the liner is disregarded and an 18% vacuum region is included in the stability calculations, the m = 0 and the externally resonant m = 1 tearing modes become unstable. The configuration is found stable with respect to ideal interchange modes. The resistive interchange stability is also briefly discussed.

Shape optimization of bonded joints was performed by use of numerical shape optimization techniques. The aim of this study was to obtain joints that are as strong and light as possible under static loading conditions by changing the profiling of the adherends. Joint types included are the single-lap, the double-lap and the double-strap; a console bonded to a rigid wall was also examined. Shape optimization was found to give a substantial decrease in the stress levels in the adhesive layer and in many cases a much lighter joint was obtained.

A project for the development of a new power reliability criterion for the Swedish Power Pool is described. The new criterion is based on multi-area reliability evaluation software. Calculation of ‘prime power’ for the country as well as for individual utilities is discussed.

This paper presents a method for integrating a detailed model of the hydroelectric system into existing power system planning tools. The purpose of the hydro model is not primarily to optimize hydro expansion, but to represent the influence of hydro regulation on the thermal system expansion. Stochastic production costing routines are used to calculate operating costs as a function of hydro production. Linear programming is used to determine the hydro production schedule that minimizes production costs along the planning period, taking into account a number of constraints in the hydro production system. A study with 16 cascaded hydro plants and 25 thermal units is presented and discussed.