CERN

The world's largest research center in particle physics, CERN, has used Kirkholm's competencies to develop an adjustment mechanism for the particle accelerator HIE-ISOLDE. Enormous amounts of energy and advanced research are at stake, which means that the engineering work behind all installations at CERN must be of the highest quality. Based on a number of set needs and requirements, Kirkholm has been responsible for the total delivery from start to finish.

Kirkholm has worked with idea generation, sketches, 3D models, requirements specification and 2D drawings, and during production Kirkholm has acted as support. In addition, the engineers have been responsible for final tests to eventually hand over a well-crafted product to CERN.

PRECISION IN EXTREMELY COLD AND RADIOACTIVE ENVIRONMENT

The function of the mechanism is to adjust a set of five superconducting cavities and a solenoid in two directions, which move in a span of  +/- 5 mm. In fact, the adjustment mechanism can position the two-tonne joint with an accuracy of 0.05 millimeters - this is despite the fact that the mechanism does not take up more space than a large shoe box.

In addition to the function itself, there have been other challenging factors to take into account in the development process. The cavities and the solenoid are immersed in a chamber with an ultra-high vacuum, where it is approximately minus 250 degrees Celsius. In addition, there is radioactive radiation and extreme purity requirements. Therefore, it has been necessary to design a special construction in strong materials. The particle accelerator with the adjustment mechanisms is surrounded by an 80 cm thick concrete wall and is designed so that it is maintenance-free for the next 20 years.

DIALOGUE AS A STARTING POINT

Throughout the process, Kirkholm and CERN have worked closely together. The responsible engineer from CERN, Yann Leclercq, sees it as an advantage that Kirkholm has developed the adjustment mechanism based on dialogue.

"Because we have had good contact throughout the process, we have been involved in the entire development process. In this way, we have been able to spar with each other and exchange ideas to arrive at optimal solutions where all aspects have been taken into account" says Yann Leclercq.

In addition, it has been particularly important for CERN that Kirkholm has had the overall responsibility for getting the project fully completed.

"The mechanisms were handed over to us after they had been tested and assembled. A good collaboration between CERN and Kirkholm in the design phase has meant that we have considered details at an early stage and have been able to avoid delays in the manufacturing phase. Our collaboration with Kirkholm from design to final tests has ensured that the products were completely worked out and ready to be installed when they were delivered to CERN" explains Yann Leclercq.

Photo credit: Erwin Siesling, CERN