Wall Conditioning Enhancements to the HIT-SI Spheromak

HIT-SI was initially operated in a prototype laboratory to calibrate its magnetic probes, and develop its baseline operating parameters. The prototyping laboratory had a minimal vacuum system and no wall conditioning. As the experiment was transitioned to the main laboratory the HIT-SI team developed several wall conditioning techniques to help provide the best possible environment for spheromak formation and sustainment . These systems include pulse discharge cleaning (PDC), glow discharge cleaning (GDC), and a convection baking system to heat the vessel up to 200$^{o}$C. The motivation for these systems and an analysis of their effectiveness are presented.