Mechanics R&D on Mighty Tracker prototype modules

Abstract

In preparation for the High-Luminosity LHC (HL-LHC) era, the LHCb experiment is undergoing a significant upgrade. A crucial element of this upgrade is the replacement of the radiation-damaged Scintillating Fibre (SciFi) Tracker with the Mighty Tracker. The Mighty Tracker is a hybrid detector that utilises both pixel and fibre technologies to achieve superior tracking capabilities at the increased luminosities expected at HL-LHC. This study focuses on the characterisation of prototype modules for the silicon pixel part of the Mighty Tracker, employing metrology, thermal analysis, and non-destructive evaluation techniques to inform the mechanical design. Prototype modules for the silicon pixel detector within the LHCb experiment's upgraded Mighty Tracker were characterised using a combination of metrology, thermal simulations, and X-ray tomography. Non-contact 3D measurements ensured dimensional consistency (thickness, planarity) of co-cured carbon foam and fibre samples for robust module construction. Post-assembly metrology evaluated structural integrity. Thermal simulations, considering material properties, geometry, and cooling, optimised the number of cooling pipes required to maintain optimal operational temperatures. High-resolution X-ray tomography enabled visualisation of internal structures, allowing quantification of glue distribution, pipe diameters, and potential defects. Metrology, thermal simulations, and X-ray tomography provided stringent quality control for the mechanical design of the silicon pixel detector modules. These techniques validated key assumptions about material properties, dimensional tolerances, and thermal management. The insights gained will guide refinements to the design and assembly processes, ultimately ensuring the upgraded LHCb Silicon Tracker achieves its performance goals.

Date of Award	31 Dec 2024
Original language	English
Awarding Institution	The University of Manchester
Supervisor	Oscar Augusto De Aguiar Francisco (Supervisor) & Marco Gersabeck (Supervisor)