A Simulation of the Fermilab Main Injector Dual Power Amplifier Cavities

TL;DR

This paper presents a CST Microwave Studio simulation of Fermilab's Main Injector cavities to identify sparking causes at high voltages and explore design modifications for higher voltage operation.

Contribution

It introduces a detailed simulation model to analyze sparking issues and assess potential geometric changes for improved cavity performance.

Findings

Identified cavity components responsible for sparking

Simulated effects of geometric modifications on sparking thresholds

Provided insights for cavity design improvements

Abstract

The Fermilab Main Injector accelerating cavities have sparking issues when they are run at voltages higher than those required by the PIP-II project. This is a problem Fermilab is working on as planning begins for the next upgrade to the accelerator complex. One of the methods being used to address the issue is the development of a CST Microwave Studio simulation to accurately model the PIP-II dual power amplifier cavities and identify which part(s) of the cavity is causing sparking to develop. The model will also be used to determine if changes to the cavity geometry may allow the cavity to be used at higher voltages before sparking occurs.