Status of the RFD linac prototype

A 2.5-MeV prototype of a “Compact 12-MeV Proton Linac for PET Isotope Production” is under construction at Linac Systems. This unit will serve as the “proof of principle” for the revolutionary new RF Focused Drift tube (RFD) linac structure. Both the prototype and the production unit will operate at 600 MHz. The prototype comprises a 25-keV proton ion source, an einzel-lens-based LEBT, a 0.65-m-long RFQ linac to 0.8 MeV, and a 0.35-m-long RFD linac to 2.5 MeV. The two linac structures will be resonantly coupled together and powered by a collection of planar triodes. The entire assembly will be evacuated by 2 turbomolecular pumps and 1 ion pump. The alignment philosophy is based on precision machining and “hard socket” for installation of the drift tubes. Fabrication methods for achieving the required precision will be described. Installation of a Laboratory Building to house the prototype is nearing completion. The prototype is scheduled for completion in the fall of 1997. The status of this project after 7 months of funded activity is reported