Efficient boronization through automation: A case study of Simatic software at ASDEX upgrade

• Automation is based on modular finite state machines for process and safety control. • Interlock groups ensure safe gas handling during B₂D₆ plasma operation. • Automation significantly reduces the workload of the boronization operation team. • Process-critical events are synchronized via global control byte. High performance operation of magnetic confinement fusion reactors requires conditioning of the plasma-facing components by boronization [ 1] . This boron hydride layers traps residual oxygen in the vacuum vessel, thereby reducing radiation losses and, especially in metal components, mitigating sputtering by oxygen ions. Technically, at ASDEX Upgrade this coating is formed by a glow discharge process, using 10 % deuterated diborane (B 2 D 6 ) in helium as carrier gas (hereafter referred to as the “B₂D₆/He mix”). In this publication, we report on the complex software architecture, which was generally realized in the form of finite state machines (FSM). These state machines contain the entire process control of the boronization process, incorporating all the safety interlocks stored in a locking matrix. With this new procedure, the boronization can be carried out within 6 h on a normal working day, without the need to evacuate the office buildings adjacent to the experimental hall.