LIPAc gets ready to operate

The Linear IFMIF Prototype Accelerator, LIPAc, is moving ahead one step at a time. Its goal is to achieve beam operation regimes never proven before, so the way there is a demanding, gradual process. After reaching full configuration last spring, the European and Japanese teams began commissioning, a sequence of tests to start up the accelerator.

The expectations are naturally high. Located in Rokkasho (Japan), LIPAc is a strategic asset in Europe’s roadmap to fusion power plants. It constitutes the main platform to validate critical technologies for IFMIF-DONES, the accelerator-based facility in Spain that will test fusion materials.

Europe and Japan started developing LIPAc in 2007, as part of the IFMIF-EVEDA project. Fusion for Energy (F4E) and QST worked with laboratories and industry to deliver its different systems, now integrated into a 36-meter accelerator line.

The teams charted a stage-by-stage commissioning plan. The first step is the warm conditioning of the newly installed Superconducting Radio Frequency (SRF) section. At room temperature, they gradually feed radio frequency power into the system and monitor parameters like vacuum, temperature and electrical discharges.

The first test runs were successful, with power delivery and control systems performing as expected. Once these trials are complete, LIPAc will unlock the next phase: the cooldown of the SRF, expected to start in December. After that, beam operations should begin by next spring and continue for three years. 

“The project is advancing as planned thanks to the strong commitment of the Integrated Project Team. This staged approach allows us to confidently move into new technical grounds while meeting the tight schedule,” explains Hervé Dzitko, IFMIF-EVEDA Project Leader.

Near the accelerator vault, the team follows the operations from the control centre. The room brings together experts from Japan and Europe, including from partner laboratories like CEA and CIEMAT and contractors. “Constant collaboration is what makes the plan work. We function as one integrated team: everyone contributes their expertise regardless of their affiliation” stresses Dzitko.

Among them are four colleagues seconded from DONES. Álvaro Marchena is the DONES onsite representative: “We provide manpower and support to LIPAc while developing further our accelerator experience. This feedback is very relevant for the future phases of IFMIF-DONES,” he says.

Indeed, besides the technological benchmark, LIPAc’s operations offer unique hands-on learning for accelerator experts. Marchena, engaged in the DONES programme since 2018, feels privileged to be on-site: “With the SRF line in action, it will be the first time an accelerator of the kind reaches such high performance. It’s a phenomenal moment to be part of LIPAc, and we must get the most out of it,” he comments.