Multilayer thermal insulation for superconducting particle accelerators

Abstract

Superconducting particle accelerators are an indispensable tool for high energy physics and basic sciences research. These accelerators use superconducting magnet and superconducting cavities for particle beam manipulation, needing cryogenic temperatures down to 2 K. Thermal insulation in the form of multilayer insulation is a key technology for reducing thermal load on these superconducting devices. This technical note is a compilation of data taken on the usage of multilayer insulation from several accelerator labs in order to aid cryogenic thermal design of superconducting particle accelerators.