Development of an Analysis Framework for the Beam Instrumentation Interface to the Beam Interlock System at ESS

The European Spallation Source (ESS) is currently being built in Lund, Sweden. When it is fully operational in 2025, it will host the most powerful neutron spallation facility in the world. The high-power proton beam needs to be carefully controlled and monitored in order to avoid possible damage to the sensitive equipment. Some of the most critical inputs to the beam interlock system are the beam monitors, delivered by the beam instrumentation group at ESS. In case local protection systems along the accelerator do not foresee a loss of beam, the beam monitors are the last line of defence to stop the proton beam and avoid equipment damage and consecutive downtime. It is essential for the protection of the machine that the whole beam permit signal chain, from monitors to actuators, fulfills strict reliability requirements. This paper describes the role and importance of the beam monitors to correctly measure beam losses and interface with the beam interlock system. It also describes one of several reliability studies that are performed to develop appropriate interfaces in the beam permit signal chain.