Pre-Operations Testing and Commissioning

FCPC Integrated Dummy Load (IDL) testing is a critical integration evolution that validates the operational readiness of the field coil rectifiers by pulsing them into a localized "dummy" load rather than the actual experiment coils. This phase is essential for synergizing significant Instrumentation and Control (I&C) systems—including EPICS, MDS+, PCS, and DCPS—alongside the necessary water cooling and power conversion infrastructure. By performing these tests, the operations team can verify system performance, troubleshoot long-dormant equipment, and ensure that both hardware and personnel are prepared for subsequent coil testing and experimental operations.

Test Status: Scheduled to start 5/26/2026 with an expected end date of 7/2/2026.

Cryo Plant commissioning is a multi-phased integration process designed to systematically validate hardware and personnel readiness while gradually expanding the system's operational envelope. The sequence starts with helium gas circulation to verify system components and train the operations team. This leads into helium gas purification to ultra-high levels using LN2-cooled adsorption pots while isolating the beamline to allow for parallel work. Subsequently, the refrigerator cold box and dewar are cooled to 80 Kelvin before turbine expanders are activated to achieve full liquefaction at 4.5 Kelvin. In the final phase, the system is integrated with the beamlines by cooling the cryopanels with liquid helium to support neutral beam ion source conditioning.

Commissioning Status: Phase 1a approved, 2-shift Helium Purification in progress.