Operation Results of the Veksler and Baldin Laboratory of High Energy Physics Cryogenic Complex: Booster–Nuclotron Session Run

Abstract

The first session of the joint operation of the Nuclotron and Booster was held in January–April 2022. Cooling of both accelerators was provided by the modernized cryogenic complex of the Veksler and Baldin Laboratory of High Energy Physics (VBLHEP). The cooling of the magnetic–cryostat system (MCS) of the Booster from 300 to 4.5 K and its further cryostatting were carried out for the first time out according to the standard scheme: the accelerator was cooled by means of the RSG-2000/4.5 helium satellite refrigerator with a cooling capacity of 2000 W at 4.5 K. Liquid helium was supplied to the Booster via a new helium pipeline, passing through separators that provide the supercooling of helium. To provide the cryogenic installations with compressed helium, the simultaneous operation of two Kaskad-80/25 screw compressors (nos. 1 and 2) was carried out for the first time. The compressed helium was dried and purified of oil vapors in two units MO-800 (nos. 1 and 2). Also for the first time, the cryogenic complex was operated on a newly mounted 1000-m³ isochoric helium gas holder. A review of the main results of the operation of the cryogenic complex during the accelerator session and a plan for its further development are given.