The Continuous Electron Beam Accelerator Facility

Superconducting RF cavities of novel design permit this unusual accelerator to run steadily rather than in bursts. The purpose is to investigate the ties that bind atomic nuclei together. CEBAF is designed to provide a steady stream of electrons at 4 GeV. A 100 keV thermal electron gun emits electrons in a stream which is chopped into packets which are accelerated to near-light speeds for entry into two linear accelerators (linacs). The beam completes five circuits of the linacs during which it is boosted by a series of superconducting RF cavities. The operation of the facility and the beam handling are briefly outlined.