Design and fabrication experience with Nb3 Sn block-type coils for high field accelerator dipoles

For the last several years, the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory has been engaged in the development of Nb3Sn block-type accelerator quality dipoles with operational bore fields in the range of 13-15 T. The magnet design features two coil modules wound around a titanium-alloy pole with a clear aperture of 43 mm. The latest model, HD3, incorporates several new features to overcome the limitations observed in previous tests. Among the key objectives are improved conductor positioning at critical transitions between straight section and end regions, and a more robust fabrication process. To date, several coils have been fabricated and we describe their performance with respect to these design and process changes. Additionally, we present our experience in design and fabrication of a new generation of magnet coils that introduce a two-piece pole design that allows for cable growth during reaction. These experiences are intended to form the basis for scale-up to longer lengths and larger aperture magnets. © 2002-2011 IEEE