Intensity possibilities for the Loma Linda medical accelerator

Based on questions and concerns over the possible intensity limitations of the Loma Linda medical synchrotron, a detailed study was conducted in order to determine the possible intensity limitations in the synchrotron, as presently configured and what could be done in future machines in order to achieve better intensity performance. The losses in the operating machines were investigated as well as the possible space charge and coherent collective effects limits. It is concluded that, with minor modifications to the low-energy beam transport line and ring, twice the beam could be injected into the synchrotron. It is believed, based upon the space charge and coherent collective effects studies, that this should result in an accelerated/extracted intensity of 7*10/sup 10/ protons. If it were decided to replace the present injection line with an RFQ (radio frequency quadrupole) that was better matched to the synchrotron, the synchrotron should be capable of achieving 1*10/sup 11/ protons per cycle on a 2-s cycle or 3*10/sup 12/ protons/min.<>