LS1 Report: across the accelerator complex

The warm-up of the first LHC sector (5-6) is now complete; it is at room temperature for the first time in over three years. Next week, the W bellows in this sector will be opened in preparation for the consolidation of the superconducting circuits, splices and interconnections (the SMACC project). Elsewhere in the LHC, the ELQA tests and the warm-up of the remaining seven sectors are proceeding as planned.

Vacuum leak tests are performed on the magnets before the LHC is brought up to ambient temperature.

The SPS magnet test programme was completed on 26 March and work has already begun in the SPS tunnel. Among the activities being carried out is the installation of 16 specially coated vacuum chambers in the SPS main dipole magnets around BA5. The first of these dipole magnets were removed from the SPS tunnel today, Friday 5 April. By reducing the build-up of electron clouds around the LHC beam during acceleration in the SPS, this activity will play a key role in the increase of LHC beam intensity.

Over at the PS, the removal of the old ventilation system is in full swing. This is a very delicate operation, as some of the old ducting contains traces of asbestos. A specialised company is in charge of this task, under the supervision of EN/CV. Work is well under way at the PS Booster to change its multi-pole corrector power supplies. The modification of its cabling and installation racks has also started.  Meanwhile, in the AD Hall, preparations have begun on the construction of the new building 393, which is part of the ELENA project. The LEIR machine remains closed for hardware tests, primarily involving new control hardware for the power converters.

Finally, it should be noted that from Monday 8 April access to the PS "centre anneau" area via Route Goward will be limited due to civil engineering work to reinforce the radiation shielding above the PS ring.  A temporary access road has been put in place, while the existing road is raised to accommodate the additional shielding. Access for private cars will no longer be possible, and access for material deliveries will be restricted.

by Simon Baird