Speaker
Description
Over the past decade, IBA has modernized its cyclotron design tools and accelerator portfolio. This presentation shares key lessons learned, illustrated with practical examples.
Controlling gas stripping is essential to minimize beam losses and component activation. Tools like SPICE models and Molflow+ help simulate vacuum behavior.
Beam dynamics in the central region, particularly phase acceptance and vertical focusing, affect performance. Optimizing the placement of accelerating gaps and implementing effective beam cleaning reduces extraction losses.
While the cyclotron magnet defines the machine’s physical footprint, the total system footprint is also influenced by beam line layout and radiation shielding. Using a larger yoke and optimized beam lines can reduce power consumption without increasing system size. High-temperature superconductors may also reshape future magnet design but they must be weighed against cost.
Output beam energy remains a key factor, especially with evolving needs in nuclear medicine. Adapting fixed energy cyclotron installed base to new energies is vital to support new radioisotope adoption.
Accurate magnetic field mapping is critical for nominal operation and isochronism. FEM analysis allows early correction predictions, reducing mapping time and milling steps. Additional shimming during Smith–Garren beam tests may be required, and new tools help anticipate these, accelerating commissioning.
