PVC Extrusion Development and Production for the NOvA Neutrino Experiment

TL;DR

This paper details the development, production, and quality control of large PVC extrusions used in the NOvA neutrino detector, highlighting manufacturing processes and assembly for a large-scale physics experiment.

Contribution

It introduces a novel process for producing large, high-quality PVC extrusions specifically designed for the NOvA neutrino detector.

Findings

Produced over 22,000 extrusions with high dimensional tolerance

Achieved robust mechanical strength in the extrusions

Ensured high reflectivity and quality control in manufacturing

Abstract

We have produced large and highly-reflective open-cell PVC extrusions for the NOvA neutrino oscillation experiment. The extrusions were sealed, instrumented, assembled into self-supporting detector blocks, and filled with liquid scintillator. Each Far Detector block stands 15.7 m high, is 15.7 m wide and 2.1 m thick. More than 22,000 extrusions were produced with high dimensional tolerance and robust mechanical strength. This paper provides an overview of the NOvA Far Detector, describes the preparation of the custom PVC powder, and the making of the extrusions. Quality control was a key element in the production and is described in detail.