One-ampere, 80-keV, long pulse H− source and accelerator

Abstract

The design and operation of the surface-conversion H− ion source and the 80-keV preaccelerator are discussed. Both the source and the preaccelerator, together with the transverse field focusing (TFF) matching and pumping beam transport section (presently being tested), will be parts of a negative-ion-based neutral beam line. Results from testing the source and preaccelerator have shown that the system can accelerate more than 1 A of H− ions at 80 keV continuously; the preaccelerator operates at an optimum perveance which matches the one predicted by WOLF code computer simulation. Deconditioning of the preaccelerator due to cesium contamination is a critical problem. A method has been developed to cope with this problem.