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Published on: May 3, 2019
Microgan electron cyclotron resonance ion source in a Van de Graaff accelerator terminal
The Review of Scientific Instruments
|March 3, 2012
Summary
A new electron cyclotron resonance ion source significantly improved the Van de Graaff accelerator
Area of Science:
- Nuclear Physics
- Accelerator Technology
- Ion Source Development
Background:
- The IRMM Van de Graaff accelerator historically used an RF ion source requiring frequent monthly maintenance.
- High current operation exacerbated maintenance needs, impacting accelerator uptime.
Purpose of the Study:
- To detail the installation and performance of a new ion source system.
- To evaluate the impact of the new system on accelerator operational stability and maintenance requirements.
Main Methods:
- Installation of a permanent magnet Microgan electron cyclotron resonance (ECR) ion source.
- Integration of a solid-state amplifier, multi-gas dosing system, and remote tuning electronics.
- Detailed analysis of the system's operation under high pressure and spark conditions, including extraction optics.
Main Results:
- The new ECR ion source demonstrated highly stable beam production.
- The upgraded system enabled extended operation periods of several months without requiring accelerator tank openings for maintenance.
- The system supports both direct current (dc) and pulsed beam modes.
Conclusions:
- The Microgan ECR ion source upgrade significantly enhanced the reliability and reduced maintenance frequency of the Van de Graaff accelerator.
- This upgrade facilitates more consistent nuclear data measurements by improving accelerator availability.
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