Operating experience of the United States National High Magnetic Field Laboratory 60 T Long Pulse Magnet

Abstract

The 60 T Long-Pulse (60 T LP) magnet system has provided controlled power magnetic field pulses to experimentalists since August 3, 1998. This magnet system is installed as part of the user facility research equipment at the National High Magnetic Laboratory (NHMFL) Pulsed Field Facility at Los Alamos National Laboratory. The 60 T LP magnet is the first of its kind in the United States and produces the highest field in its class, routinely providing a 60 T pulsed field of 100 ms flat-top duration in a 32 mm diameter bore. In addition, numerous other controlled pulse shapes at 60 T and lower fields have been provided. Since the start of commissioning on September 17, 1997 the magnet has been pulsed in excess of 800 times at various field levels. More than 600 magnet pulses have been provided to experiments and almost 400 of these were at 60 T. Operating statistics including coil system and inductance and resistance histories are presented. Operating and maintenance experience and issues are discussed as well as realizable improvements and upgrades to the magnet.