A 200 kW, 350 MHz Inductive Output Tube for RF Accelerators

RF sources are required for powering accelerators operating at approximately 350 MHz and for pro­viding 200 kW CW for each accelerator cavity. This project will develop a fundamental-mode, multiple-beam Inductive Output Tube (IOT) for potential accelerator applications. The advantage of multiple beams is the reduction in operating voltage required to propagate several beams down individual beam tunnels. In turn, the lower beam volt­age allows significant reduction in the power supply requirements and decreases the likelihood for electrical breakdown and x-ray generation. Combined with the IOT¿s inherent high efficiency, the multiple-beam IOT would be an extremely cost effective RF source for accelerator applications. Phase I developed preliminary designs for all major components and demonstrated feasibility. An analysis determined power supply, drive, mechanical, and performance spec­ifications. Phase II will finalize the design, then fabricate and test a prototype multiple beam IOT at full power. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee: The multiple-beam IOT would operate at much higher effi­ciency and be considerably less expensive than the klystrons that are now used for numerous accelerator applications. The sig­nificantly lower operating voltage also would result in dramatic savings for the power supplies and ancillary equipment and facilities.