Installation of an improved version of the kicker magnet (or rapid beam deflector) used in the fast extraction system of the Proton Synchrotron (PS)

Work on this improved version has been carried out in the NPA Division and the magnet is seen here being transported for voltage tests to a vacuum box which is identical to the box in straight section number 97, where it is eventually intended to place the new magnet. If all the preliminary tests go well, it may be installed in the synchrotron early in 1967. The magnet has a bigger horizontal and vertical aperture than the version in use at present and will give a better pulse shape. This improved performance gives more margin for error in beam position and magnet setting. Also the magnet has been constructed using a minimum of organic materials to reduce the likelihood of deterioration due to radiation. The older version uses polyethylene and oil as dielectric in its capacitor arrangement and these show signs of deterioration. With the increase in beam intensity scheduled in the PS improvement programme, this could become a considerable problem. The photograph shows a rear view of the magnet (the beam aperture being on the opposite side) and the condenser plates of the co-axial conductor can be seen along its length. The vacuum in the PS, as opposed to oil, will be the insulator. The magnet is constructed in two identical parts and it is being held by the mechanic at two of the positions where the power is fed in.