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At least 1,729 records · Page 96

Control Systems Design for STS Accelerator

The Second Target Station (STS) Project will expand the capabilities of the existing Spallation Neutron Source (SNS), with a suite of neutron instruments optimized for long wavelengths. A new accelerator transport line will be built to deliver one out of four SNS pulses to the new target station. The Integrated Control Systems (ICS) will provide remote control, monitoring, OPI, alarms, and archivers for the accelerator systems, such as magnets power supply, vacuum devices, and beam instrumentation. The ICS will upgrade the existing Linac LLRF controls to allow independent operation of the FTS and STS and support different power levels of the FTS and STS proton beam. The ICS accelerator controls are in the phase of preliminary design for the control systems of magnet power supply, vacuum, LLRF, Timing, Machine protection system (MPS), and computing and machine network. The accelerator control systems build upon the existing SNS Machine Control systems, use the SNS standard hardware and EPICS software, and take full advantage of the performance gains delivered by the PPU Project at SNS.

Yan, Jay↗

Errant Beam Prognostics with Machine Leaning at SNS Accelerator

Particle Accelerators are complex machine with many pieces of equipment running in synchronization to deliver required beam. However, faults in particle accelerators reduce the availability of the beam for experiments affecting the overall science output. To avoid these faults, we apply anomaly detection techniques to predict any unusual behavior and perform preemptive actions to improve the total availability. Many researchers have adopted semi-supervised Machine Learning (ML) methods such as auto-encoders and variational auto-encoders for such tasks. However, supervised ML techniques designed for similarity learning such as Siamese Neural Network (SNN) can outperform semi-supervised or unsupervised methods for anomaly prediction. One of the challenges associated with application of ML models to particle accelerators is the variability in observed data over time due to system configuration changes. We employ conditional models such as Conditional Siamese Neural Networks (CSNN), and Conditional-VAE (CVAE) to learn the variability in the data by using beam configuration parameters as conditional input. We apply these models for errant beam prediction at Spallation Neutron Source accelerator under different system configurations and compare their performance. We demonstrate that CSNN outperforms CVAE in our application. This talk will present the data source, collection, analysis, data-preparation, model development, hyper-parameter studies and the results.

Rajput, Kishansingh↗

The fast linear accelerator modeling engine for FRIB online model service

Commissioning of a large accelerator facility like FRIB needs support from an online beam dynamics model. Considering the new physics challenges of FRIB such as modeling of non-axisymmetric superconducting RF cavities and multi-charge state acceleration, there is no readily available online beam tuning code. The design code of FRIB super-conducting linac, IMPACT-Z, is not suitable for online tuning because of its code design and running speed. Therefore, the Fast Linear Accelerator Modeling Engine (FLAME), specifically designed to fulfill FRIB’s online modeling challenges, is proposed. The physics model of FLAME, especially its novel way of modeling non-axisymmetric superconducting RF cavities using a multipole expansion based thin-lens kick model, is discussed in detail, and the benchmark results against FRIB design code is presented, after which the software design strategy of FLAME and its execution speed is presented.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

BESTIA - the next generation ultra-fast CO 2 laser for advanced accelerator research

Over the last two decades, BNL’s ATF has pioneered the use of high-peak power CO 2 lasers for research in advanced accelerators and radiation sources. In addition, our recent developments in ion acceleration, Compton scattering, and IFELs have further underscored the benefits from expanding the landscape of strong-field laser interactions deeper into the mid-infrared (MIR) range of wavelengths. This extension validates our ongoing efforts in advancing CO 2 laser technology, which we report here. Our next-generation, multi-terawatt, femtosecond CO 2 laser will open new opportunities for studying ultra-relativistic laser interactions with plasma in the MIR spectral domain, including new regimes in the particle acceleration of ions and electrons.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Flat electron beam sources for DLA accelerators

In this study we discuss the application of the flat beam transform to generate beams suitable for injection into slab-symmetric dielectric laser-driven accelerators (DLAs). A study of the focusing requirements to keep the particles within the tight apertures characterizing these accelerators shows the benefits of employing ultralow beam emittances. The slab geometry of the many dielectric accelerating structures strongly favors the use of flat beams with large ratio between vertical and horizontal emittances. We employ particle tracking simulations to study the application of the flat beam transform for two injector designs, a DC non relativistic photogun and a 1.6 cell S-band RF photoinjector, obtaining in both cases emittance ratios between the horizontal and vertical plane in excess of 100 in agreement with simple analytical estimates. The 4 MeV RF photoinjector study-case can be directly applied to the UCLA Pegasus beamline and shows normalized emittances down to < 3 nm in the vertical dimension for beam charges up to 20 fC, enabling a two-stage DLA experiment.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

High gradient RF test results of S-band and C-band cavities for medical linear accelerators

TERA Foundation has proposed and designed hadrontherapy facilities based on novel linacs, i.e. high gradient linacs which accelerate either protons or light ions. The overall length of the linac, and therefore its cost, is almost inversely proportional to the average accelerating gradient. With the scope of studying the limiting factors for high gradient operation and to optimize the linac design, TERA, in collaboration with the CLIC Structure Development Group, has conducted a series of high gradient experiments. The main goals were to study the high gradient behavior and to evaluate the maximum gradient reached in 3 and 5.7 GHz structures to direct the design of medical accelerators based on high gradient linacs. Lastly, this paper summarizes the results of the high power tests of 3.0 and 5.7 GHz single-cell cavities.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Record fast-cycling accelerator magnet based on HTS conductor

Four decades ago development of high-current superconducting NbTi wire cables revolutionized the magnet technology for energy frontier accelerators, such as Tevatron, RHIC and LHC. The NbTi based magnets offered advantage of much higher fields B and much lower electric wall plug power consumption if operated at 4.5 K but relatively small ramping rates $dB/dt$ << 0.1 T/s. The need for the accelerators of high average beam power and high repetition rates have initiated studies of fast ramping SC magnets, but it was found the AC losses in the low-temperature superconductors preclude obtaining the rates in the excess of (1- 4) T/s. Here we report the first application of high-temperature superconductor magnet technology with substantially lower AC losses and report record high ramping rates of 12 T/s achieved in a prototype dual-aperture accelerator magnet.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Radioisotope replacement with compact electron linear accelerators

The replacement of radioactive sources with alternative technologies has been identified as a priority by international authorities, due to the risk of accidents and diversion by terrorists for use in Radiological Dispersal Devices. Many of these sources can be replaced with the X-rays produced by electron beams accelerated to MeV energies. However, the size, weight and costs of electron linacs must be significantly reduced to be considered for radioisotope replacement. RadiaBeam Technologies, LLC is developing a series of inexpensive compact electron accelerators in the 1–10 MeV range for radioisotope replacement such as Ir-192, Cs-137 and Co-60 for various applications. The dramatic level of miniaturization and cost-reduction was achieved thanks to the implementation of such innovative technologies as high-frequency magnetrons, split accelerating structure fabrication technology and solid-state Marx modulators. Here, in this paper, we overview RadiaBeam's compact linac developments, discuss the enabling technologies, and report on the current progress.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Overview of accelerators with potential use in homeland security

Quite a broad range of accelerators have been applied to solving many of the challenging problems related to homeland security and defense. These accelerator systems range from relatively small, simple, and compact, to large and complex, based on the specific application requirements. They have been used or proposed as sources of primary and secondary probe beams for applications such as radiography and to induce specific reactions that are key signatures for detecting conventional explosives or fissile material. A brief overview and description of these accelerator systems, their specifications, and application will be presented. Some recent technology trends will also be discussed.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Electron pulse train accelerated by a linearly polarized Laguerre–Gaussian laser beam

A linearly polarized Laguerre–Gaussian (LP-LG) laser beam with a twist index $l$ = –1 has field structure that fundamentally differs from the field structure of a conventional linearly polarized Gaussian beam. Close to the axis of the LP-LG beam, the longitudinal electric and magnetic fields dominate over the transverse components. This structure offers an attractive opportunity to accelerate electrons in vacuum. It is shown, using three-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations, that this scenario can be realized by reflecting an LP-LG laser off a plasma with a sharp density gradient. The simulations indicate that a 600 TW LP-LG laser beam effectively injects electrons into the beam during the reflection. The electrons that are injected close to the laser axis experience a prolonged longitudinal acceleration by the longitudinal laser electric field. The electrons form distinct monoenergetic bunches with a small divergence angle. The energy in the most energetic bunch is 0.29 GeV. The bunch charge is 6 pC and its duration is approximately 270 as. The divergence angle is just 0.57° (10 mrad). By using a linearly polarized rather than a circularly polarized Laguerre–Gaussian beam, our scheme makes it easier to demonstrate the electron acceleration experimentally at a high-power laser facility.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Laboratory measurements of the physics of auroral electron acceleration by Alfvén waves

While the aurora has attracted attention for millennia, important questions remain unanswered. Foremost is how auroral electrons are accelerated before colliding with the ionosphere and producing auroral light. Powerful Alfvén waves are often found traveling Earthward above auroras with sufficient energy to generate auroras, but there has been no direct measurement of the processes by which Alfvén waves transfer their energy to auroral electrons. Here, we show laboratory measurements of the resonant transfer of energy from Alfvén waves to electrons under conditions relevant to the auroral zone. Experiments are performed by launching Alfvén waves and simultaneously recording the electron velocity distribution. Numerical simulations and analytical theory support that the measured energy transfer process produces accelerated electrons capable of reaching auroral energies. The experiments, theory, and simulations demonstrate a clear causal relationship between Alfvén waves and accelerated electrons that directly cause auroras.

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY↗

Transformer ratio improvement for beam based plasma accelerators

Increasing the transformer ratio of wakefield accelerating systems improves the viability of present novel accelerating schemes. The use of asymmetric bunches to improve the transformer ratio of beam based plasma systems has been proposed for some time[1, 2] but suffered from lack appropriate beam creation systems. Recently these impediments have been overcome [3, 4] and the ability now exists to create bunches with current profiles shaped to overcome the symmetric beam limit of R {<=} 2. We present here work towards experiments designed to measure the transformer ratio of such beams, including theoretical models and simulations using VORPAL (a 3D capable PIC code) [5]. Specifically we discuss projects to be carried out in the quasi-nonlinear regime [6] at the UCLA Neptune Laboratory and the Accelerator Test Facility at Brookhaven National Lab.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Characterisation of electron beams from laser-driven particle accelerators

The development, understanding and application of laser-driven particle accelerators require accurate measurements of the beam properties, in particular emittance, energy spread and bunch length. Here we report measurements and simulations showing that laser wakefield accelerators can produce beams of quality comparable to conventional linear accelerators.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Three dimensional finite element methods: Their role in the design of DC accelerator systems

High Voltage Engineering has designed, built and tested a 2 MV dual irradiation system that will be applied for radiation damage studies and ion beam material modification. The system consists of two independent accelerators which support simultaneous proton and electron irradiation (energy range 100 keV - 2 MeV) of target sizes of up to 300 Multiplication-Sign 300 mm{sup 2}. Three dimensional finite element methods were used in the design of various parts of the system. The electrostatic solver was used to quantify essential parameters of the solid-state power supply generating the DC high voltage. The magnetostatic solver and ray tracing were used to optimize the electron/ion beam transport. Close agreement between design and measurements of the accelerator characteristics as well as beam performance indicate the usefulness of three dimensional finite element methods during accelerator system design.

36 MATERIALS SCIENCE↗

Resonant coupling applied to superconducting accelerator structures

The concept of resonant coupling and the benefits that accrue from its application is well known in the world of room temperature coupled cavity linacs. Design studies show that it can be applied successfully between sections of conventional elliptical superconducting coupled cavity accelerator structures and internally to structures with spoked cavity resonators. The coupling mechanisms can be designed without creating problems with high field regions or multipactoring. The application of resonant coupling to superconducting accelerators eliminates the need for complex cryogenic mechanical tuners and reduces the time needed to bring a superconducting accelerator into operation.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

The energy transfer in the TEMP-4M pulsed ion beam accelerator

The results of a study of the energy transfer in the TEMP-4M pulsed ion beam accelerator are presented. The energy transfer efficiency in the Blumlein and a self-magnetically insulated ion diode was analyzed. Optimization of the design of the accelerator allows for 85% of energy transferred from Blumlein to the diode (including after-pulses), which indicates that the energy loss in Blumlein and spark gaps is insignificant and not exceeds 10%–12%. Most losses occur in the diode. The efficiency of energy supplied to the diode to the energy of accelerated ions is 8%–9% for a planar strip self-magnetic MID, 12%–15% for focusing diode and 20% for a spiral self-magnetic MID.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Acceleration of positrons by a relativistic electron beam in the presence of quantum effects

Using the quantum magnetohydrodynamic model and obtaining the dispersion relation of the Cherenkov and cyclotron waves, the acceleration of positrons by a relativistic electron beam is investigated. The Cherenkov and cyclotron acceleration mechanisms of positrons are compared together. It is shown that growth rate and, therefore, the acceleration of positrons can be increased in the presence of quantum effects.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗

Cascaded target normal sheath acceleration

A cascaded target normal sheath acceleration (TNSA) scheme is proposed to simultaneously increase energy and improve energy spread of a laser-produced mono-energetic proton beam. An optimum condition that uses the maximum sheath field to accelerate the center of the proton beam is theoretically found and verified by two-dimensional particle-in-cell simulations. An initial 10 MeV proton beam is accelerated to 21 MeV with energy spread decreased from 5% to 2% under the optimum condition during the process of the cascaded TNSA. The scheme opens a way to scale proton energy lineally with laser energy.

43 PARTICLE ACCELERATORS↗