Test results of TQS03: A LARP shell-based Nb3Sn quadrupole using 108/127 conductor

Future insertion quadrupoles with large apertures and high gradients will be required for the Phase II luminosity upgrade (1035 cm−2s−1) of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC). Although improved designs, based on NbTi, are being considered as an intermediate step for the Phase I upgrade, the Nb3Sn conductor is presently the best option that meets the ultimate performance goals for both operating field and temperature margin. As part of the development of Nb3Sn magnet technology, the LHC Accelerator Research Program (LARP) developed and tested several 1-meter long, 90-mm aperture Nb3Sn quadrupoles. The first two series of magnet used OST MJR 54/61 (TQ01 series) and OST RRP 54/61 (TQ02 series) strands. The third series (TQ03) used OST RRP 108/127 conductor. The larger number of sub-elements and the consequent reduction of the effective filament size, together with an increased fraction of copper and a lower Jc were expected to improve the conductor stability. The new coils were tested in the TQS03 series using a shell structure assembled with keys and bladders. The objective of the first test (TQS03a) was to evaluate the performances of the 108/127 conductor and, in particular, its behaviour at 1.9 K, while the second test (TQS03b) investigated the impact on high azimuthal pre-stress on the magnet performance. This paper reports on TQS03 fabrication, the strain gauge measurements performed during assembly, cool-down, excitation and the quench behaviour of the two magnets.