SNS October 2008 status

The Spallation Neutron Source (SNS) completed construction in June, 2006. Since then the power has been ramped up and by October, 2008 has reached 620 kW with over 1200 MW-h of energy delivered to the target. During this period the complement of neutron scattering instruments has increased from the original 3–6 operational and 13 in varying stages of planning or construction. This paper will discuss the power ramp up history and availability with an emphasis on the target system components and operating experience.