Quality Assurance Program Implementation on the Collider Quadrupole Model Magnet Contract

Abstract

Babcock & Wilcox’ (B&W) Model Magnet Program was initiated in order to evaluate quench performance of the B&W / Siemens cross section design. The program consists of the manufacture, inspection, warm electrical and quench testing of (four) one meter long cold masses and (four) five meter long cold masses. The program also includes the capability to modify the design and configuration of the magnet, based upon quench testing results. Although the program is an added scope of work to be executed ahead of the original schedule, B&W has implemented many of the quality systems that will be required during later contract phases. The rationale for this effort is that if a successful design is to be reproduced, all of the configuration, manufacturing, inspection, and test information must be captured and it must be reliable. Conversely, if a magnet’s performance is substandard, this must be known too, so that it can be corrected in time for fabrication of the next model.