Radio-Frequency Upgrades
The Basics
Radio-frequency (RF) energy is used to power the Linear Accelerator. The RF energy is produced when a specialized type of vacuum tube amplifier, called a klystron, converts high-voltage pulsed power to RF energy. A klystron is essentially a miniature linear accelerator.
PPU Upgrades
PPU added 28 high-power radio-frequency klystrons to provide up to 700 kilowatts of power to each of the 28 new cavities. The RF stations were installed at the high-energy end of the klystron gallery.
New high-voltage converter modulators with improved circuitry and components for increased reliability were installed to drive the 28 klystrons.
A new low-level RF control system was developed for the PPU because the existing system could no longer be produced due to parts obsolescence. The new system offers improved performance and diagnostic capabilities made possible by technology advancements since the SNS was constructed.
A new water-cooling system was installed to service the 28 new RF stations, and various improvements were made to existing water-cooling systems.
Klystrons power the superconducting accelerator cavities.
RF systems power the normal conducting (copper) accelerator cavities.
