On 13 October 2026, warm conditioning of the LIPAc Superconducting Radio-Frequency (SRF) Linac power couplers resumed at Rokkasho, starting with coupler #2. The restart took place on the planned date, marking the beginning of the second conditioning period in preparation for the first cryomodule cooldown and subsequent beam commissioning.
The campaign builds on the progress achieved between 10 June and 31 July, when four of the eight couplers individually reached continuous-wave operation at power levels between 25 and 32 kW. The new conditioning period aims to extend this progress to the remaining couplers and consolidate the results already obtained.
Power couplers deliver RF power to the superconducting cavities that will accelerate the beam in a later stage. Warm conditioning prepares these components for operation by gradually applying RF power at room temperature while monitoring their vacuum response, temperatures and discharge activity. This process is an essential preparation step before testing them at cryogenic temperature. Achieving the restart on schedule reflects the sustained efforts and commitment of the whole Integrated Project Team working onsite and offsite. The IFMIF/EVEDA Project thanks all colleagues, contributing Institutes and contractors whose work and commitment made this possible.