Abstract Details
Abstracts
Author: Simon D Pinches
Requested Type: Consider for Invited
Submitted: 2026-03-10 11:16:59
Co-authors: S.H. Kim, F. Poli, F. Koechl, M. Dubrov, A. Loarte, and O. Hoenen
Contact Info:
ITER Organization
Route de Vinon-sur-Verdon
St Paul Lez Durance Cedex, 13067
France
Abstract Text:
Integrated modelling is a cornerstone of the ITER physics programme, enabling predictive, end to end simulations that capture the coupled behaviour of tokamak plasmas across multiple spatial and temporal scales. The complexity of ITER operation—spanning core transport, MHD stability, energetic particles, edge and divertor physics, plasma–wall interaction, heating and current drive, and plant constraints—demands a self-consistent, integrated treatment rather than isolated modelling approaches.
This talk reviews recent progress in integrated modelling for ITER, focusing on the development of coupled physics workflows supported by a common data and software infrastructure. These advances are enabling increasingly realistic simulations of full plasma discharges, providing a coherent framework for scenario analysis and operational planning. Key technical challenges are discussed, including physics models, their integration and validation.
The role of integrated modelling is illustrated through applications supporting the refinement of the ITER Research Plan, following the adoption of a tungsten first wall and changes to the heating and current drive mix. Scenario simulations now achieve an advanced level of predictive capability, including free boundary equilibrium and core–edge–SOL integration. Examples are presented spanning the Start of Research Operation through high performance DT-1 operation, with time dependent simulations used to assess H mode access, tungsten behaviour, divertor heat loads, and operational margins during transient phases.
The talk also highlights the growing importance of synthetic diagnostics as a component of a high-fidelity plasma simulator, supporting model validation, data analysis preparations, and studies of discharge controllability. Finally, the essential contribution of the international community to validating and advancing integrated modelling capabilities for ITER and future burning plasma devices is emphasized.
Characterization: 5.0
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