Closing the Gap: The Evolution of CMS at CERN

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the operational mechanics of the Compact Muon Solenoid (CMS) at CERN, specifically addressing the gap between its two halves during maintenance phases. It is confirmed that the CMS detector is opened for maintenance every winter, with longer shutdowns occurring every few years. During operational phases, the two halves of the detector are brought together to seal the gap, utilizing air pads for movement. The conversation highlights the structural design and maintenance practices of the CMS, emphasizing the importance of understanding these processes for accurate representation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of particle physics and the role of detectors like CMS.
  • Familiarity with the operational phases of large particle colliders.
  • Knowledge of maintenance protocols for complex scientific instruments.
  • Basic comprehension of structural engineering principles related to movable components.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the operational phases of the Large Hadron Collider (LHC).
  • Explore the mechanics of air pad systems in heavy machinery.
  • Learn about the design and maintenance of particle detectors like CMS.
  • Investigate the impact of maintenance shutdowns on experimental data collection.
USEFUL FOR

Physicists, engineers, and researchers involved in particle physics, as well as those interested in the operational and maintenance aspects of large-scale scientific instruments like the CMS at CERN.

YoungPhysicist
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In this picture of CMS, there is a huge gap between the two sides. There is no way that the collision occur directly in midair right?

So is the gap already been sealed? ( which means the picture was taken before it started to operate) Or I am completely wrong?
 

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You see CMS during a maintenance phase where the detector was opened to access it. This typically happens every winter, with longer shutdowns (for 1-2 years) every few years.
During collisions it is closed.
 
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Thanks! I am correct for the first time! By the way, I got another question: when the maintenance is over, are the detector’s two halves brought together to seal the gap or an extra section is removed while mainiainance and installed back afterwards?(Since I didn’t see any sign of some sort of rail mechanism which makes the two halves moveable)
 
Thanks you so much!
 
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