Tests of prototype quadrupole magnets for heavy ion fusion beam transport

Abstract

Four NbTi superconducting prototype quadrupole magnets have been built for the High Current Transport Experiment (HCX) as part of the multi-beam heavy-ion fusion research activity, led by the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL). MIT performed quench training and ramp rate tests of the two prototype magnets that were designed and built by the Advanced Magnet Lab, Inc. (AML), based on a novel concept featuring cable-in-groove and multi-layer stacking. Both magnets are splice-free without inter-layer or inter-quadrant joint. Each coil was wound with a continuous NbTi round cable, placed in precise grooves machined in G-11 plates. The two magnets differ in their cable construction and their coil and yoke configuration. Each magnet was tested more than once in liquid helium bath with a room temperature thermal cycle between cold tests. This paper describes the results of the performance tests as well as the instrumentation and the quench protection system. Possible improvements for future coil winding are discussed.