TRIUMF 500 MEV CYCLOTRON REFURBISHMENT

The TRIUMF cyclotron has successfully operated for more then 30 years at beam intensities well above the original goal of 100 μA at 500 MeV. Presently, it delivers proton beams (up to 300 μA) simultaneously to multiple users with 90 % availability for about 6000 hours annually. One of its current primary functions is to serve as a high power driver for ISAC, TRIUMF's radioactive beam facility. Most of the cyclotron's systems and components exhibit reliable and stable performance despite their age; others have been replaced or upgraded over the years. The Operations Group maintains downtime and component failure statistics; the analysis of these data leads to preventative actions to improve the machine reliability. Items which may have potentially significant downtime or dose implications are the first candidates for upgrade. At ISAC startup in the year 2000, the cyclotron's needs were reviewed and a dedicated refurbishing program was established. The aim is to ensure that TRIUMF's scientific goals can be achieved for the next 15-20 years. This paper describes recent and current refurbishing activities as well as plans for future major renovations.