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Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory projects
Project Summary
Hanson provided engineering and architecture services through an indefinite delivery task order contract with the Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory (Fermilab) in Batavia, Illinois. Fermilab, a U.S. Department of Energy laboratory, advances the understanding of the fundamental nature of matter and energy by providing leadership and resources for qualified researchers to conduct basic research at the frontiers of high-energy physics and related disciplines. Hanson’s involvement has extended to the following projects:
"Hanson has historically provided Fermilab with excellent service that has made for successful projects." — Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory
Neutrinos at the Main Injector (NuMI) Title III services – Excavation was completed for the underground components for a project called Neutrinos at the Main Injector (NuMI), which uses a high-intensity beam of protons to create neutrinos. Construction included structural underground openings for about 4,000 feet of a 21-foot-diameter tunnel ranging in depth from 140 feet to 340 feet and three shafts ranging from 17 feet to 30 feet in diameter. Fermilab engaged Hanson to provide Title III services during construction for the review of electrical, mechanical, geotechnical and structural shop drawings during the outfitting stage of the NuMI project.
MI-31 facility design – Fermilab required a new facility to be designed immediately adjacent to the main injector (MI). The facility was to be designed so that construction activities did not impact the main injector’s operation, which circulates protons at close to the speed of light and generates synchrotron radiation when in operation. The new MI-31 facility features a high bay structure, about 100 feet by 45 feet in plan, and includes a 30-foot-deep basement, about 55 feet by 45 feet in plan. Overhead cranes, a drive-through truck bay and an extensive subsurface drainage system are a few of the structure’s elements. The design includes a unique internal structural diaphragm system that will allow the interior of the deep basement area to remain completely unobstructed and minimize the below-grade structural wall system. Hanson developed construction documents, schedules and construction cost estimates and specialized electrical design.
International Linear Collider – first conceptual design – Fermilab explores ideas for a linear collider that would accelerate electrons and positrons. The initial concept, called the Next Linear Collider (NLC), required a cryogenic machine operating at a few degrees Kelvin (just above absolute zero) and would require a significant amount of electricity to power. NLC was envisioned as a twin 14-foot-diameter tunnel approximately 24 miles long. Concept designs range from shallow cut and cover tunnel alternatives to deep rock tunnel alternatives at depths of up to 400 feet.
NLC featured seven to 10 surface structures located on top of the shafts, connecting to the tunnel. Electrical distribution will originate from a new 245-Kv substation with a substantial 25-MKv distribution system along the surface of the earth.
Hanson’s scope included the development of concept designs, including addressing life-safety issues that may allow elimination of one of the twin tunnels.
The NLC has evolved into the International Linear Collider (ILC) project. Scientists and funding agencies from Asia, Europe and North America contribute to advancing the ILC project. Hanson’s involvement with the project continues, as we are providing conceptual designs and cost-estimate models.