The ALBA Synchrotron has developed a new girder system designed to meet the demanding mechanical stability requirements of ALBA II, the upcoming upgrade of the facility. These girders are key structures that support magnets, vacuum chambers, and diagnostic systems while ensuring their precise alignment along the accelerator.
To validate the design, Nortemecánica was awarded the contract to build two full scale prototypes. The prototypes were delivered in December 2025 and have undergone extensive testing to assess their mechanical performance and alignment capabilities. These prototypes are evaluated under conditions that closely replicate the operational environment of the accelerator. This allows engineers to analyse vibrational behaviour, structural deformation, and alignment precision before finalising the design for series production.
One of the most critical parameters, that is the planarity of the top surface of the frame, was measured to be 0.06 mm, which is below the specification of 0.10 mm. Javier Boyer declares himself extremely satisfied with the work delivered by Nortemecánica.