Collimation : experience and performance

Abstract

The main task of the LHC collimation system is to ensure

safe and efficient operation, acting as first element of machine protection and minimizing the risk of magnet quenches

induced by beam loss. The year 2016 has been very successful in terms of achieved LHC performance, thanks also to the

reliability of its collimation system. No magnet quenches due to losses from circulating beam were recorded and an excellent cleaning inefficiency of about 10−4 with 6.5 TeV beams was achieved. The key elements in the set up of an efficient collimation system, together with the performance obtained with both proton and ion beams, are presented. Main operational improvements with respect to the 2015 run and plans for further upgrades are discussed. Highlights from collimation Machine Development (MD) studies and

their implications on collimation performance on the different timescales are also reported.