Optimization of the collimation system for the Spallation Neutron Source accumulator ring

The collimation system for the Spallation Neutron Source accumulator ring is designed for a capture efficiency close to 95% of the proton beam halo, dissipating about 2 kW of beam power. The collimation system consists of a two-stage collimation system (one scraper and two absorbers) cleaning the transverse halo and a beam-in-gap kicker system cleaning the gap residual and longitudinal halo. Preliminary studies indicate that a maximum level of uncontrolled loss of 0.01% of the total beam is achievable. On the other hand, the energy lost in the primary scraper may kick protons outside the rf bucket concentrating uncontrolled losses in areas of maximum dispersion. We use Monte Carlo simulations to clarify some beam dynamic issues that may compromise the high efficiency required. The material interacting with the beam and the shape of the scraper and absorbers have been carefully chosen to maximize the collimation efficiency and to minimize radioactivation. Furthermore, a realistic distribution of losses around the machine is used to identify potential hot areas. Finally, we determine the sensitivity of the collimation efficiency to misalignments and closed orbit errors. This paper describes the latest design of the collimation system and summarizes the results of these numerical studies.