24
Fast
Exchange Refrigerator for Neutron Science (FERNS)--Containerless
Research, Inc.,
Dr.
Richard Weber, Principal Investigator,
Mr.
John Nordine, Business Official,
DOE
Grant No. DE-FG02-03ER83633
Amount:
$731,744
Next-generation high flux neutron sources, such as the Spallation Neutron
Source (SNS) at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, will allow faster-than-ever data
collection rates. Unfortunately, the
present generation of neutron sample environment equipment (cryostats, furnaces,
etc.) lacks the automation features needed to handle the high demand by
non-expert users for rapid experiments and frequent sample changes. This project will develop and deliver an advanced automated, programmable
sample handling system for use in cryogenic sample environments for neutron
research. The approach will
integrate state-of-the-art cryogenic and computer-controlled automation
technologies to create a “Fast Exchange Refrigerator for Neutron Sciences,”
specifically designed to increase experimental throughput in the next-generation
neutron user facilities. The
new facility will be targeted to high flux beamlines that will enable
investigation of a large number of samples. In
Phase I, instrument requirements were determined through discussions with users,
and a breadboard instrument, control software, and sample holders were
constructed. In tests using a
cryostat, test samples were exchanged in less than one minute.
Cool-down tests indicated that pre-cooling of samples would not be
required to achieve fast turnaround. In
Phase II, design parameters will be fixed; a prototype instrument will be
constructed and fully documented; software will be prepared for use with
ethernet-based control; simple, inexpensive sample encapsulation will be
developed; and the instrument will be delivered, tested, and installed at an SNS
beamline.
Commercial
Applications and Other Benefits as
described by awardee: The instrument should
satisfy a need of emerging neutron scattering facilities, where there would be a
market for partially automated facilities. In
addition to the target market in neutron instrumentation, a modified version of
the instrument would serve markets in X-ray diffraction.