Reliability Analysis for the LHC Machine Protection System

A complex Machine Protection System (MPS) protects the Large Hadron Collider (LHC) against damage in case of uncontrolled beam losses. “User Systems” detect abnormal conditions and request a beam abort. The request is transmitted via the Beam Interlock System (BIS) to the LHC Beam Dumping System (LBDS), which extracts and dumps the beam. The MPS must be safe, reliable and maintainable without causing spurious shut downs.