Enhancing Safety Systems On The CS-30 Cyclotron With A PLC-Based Controller

Abstract

Integration of advanced technologies such as Programmable Logic Controllers (PLC) in particle accelerator safety systems has proven to enhance operational reliability and efficiency in complex environments. Numerous projects have successfully implemented these solutions to ensure operational safety and stability, making facilities more adaptive to scientific and medical needs. A Programmable Logic Controller (PLC) based controller has been implemented on the safety system of CS-30 cyclotron. The PLC with an LCD touch screen interface providing reliability and ease of operation replaced the old control system that relied on logic gates and relay-based interlock systems. The main controller located in the cyclotron control room manages four radiation zones: cyclotron cave, physics cave, solid target cave and Positron Emission Tomography (PET) cave. Each zone has a cave control unit, an area radiation monitor, door sign lights and horns. In order to protect personnel from radiation and electrical hazards, the PLC was programmed to implement four stages of access: permitted, controlled, restricted and no access. As a result, this safety system has effectively replaced the old system and can be applied to other similar facilities.