FRIB continues technical construction, and another significant milestone has been reached with all cryomodules now in production. Additionally, the first three cryomodules in the linear accelerator tunnel have been successfully cooled down to 4 Kelvin, as part of FRIB’s phased beam-commissioning plan. In late May, the second Accelerator Readiness Review (ARR02) was held, with the committee answering all charge questions affirmatively, contingent upon completion of pre-start recommendations. ARR02 provided independent input to the FRIB laboratory director and the MSU president for their authorization to operate the first three cryomodules (β=0.041) in linac segment 1 for commissioning with beam.

The linear accelerator consists of 46 cryomodules that will deliver the heavy ion beam to its target where rare isotopes will be produced. A total of 324 superconducting resonators assembled in the cryomodules will be cooled down with liquid helium to accelerate the beam. There are six different types of cryomodules and four different types of resonators, and each type is currently in production. As of the end of May, 22 cryomodules have been installed in the FRIB tunnel, and the rest will be finished and installed by end of 2019.

FRIB is on the leading edge of cryomodule manufacturing with its highly trained staff and advanced production facility. There are two horizontal cryomodule test facilities that are supported by an independent helium refrigeration system for the purpose of cold testing.

FRIB has also established a supply chain for the production of cryomodules that provides access to specialty technical components for cryomodules and other linear accelerator devices. FRIB trains cryogenic students in its state-of-the-art facilities to give them a unique experience and prepare them for jobs in the industry.