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Magnetic Measurement Facility Opens

With a ceremonial ribbon cutting and the passing of a larger-than-life cardboard key, the Magnetic Measurement Facility (MMF) officially opened last Friday. More than 50 people attended the ceremony, celebrating the new space with cake, balloons and sparkling cider.

"On behalf of Jonathan and the lab, it's a pleasure to acknowledge everyone who contributed to this project," said Keith Hodgson. "I declare this new work facility, the first real hardware of the LCLS, open."

The MMF, located in Building 81 (Shipping and Receiving), will soon house undulator magnets for the Linac Coherent Light Source (LCLS). It will also offer a temperature-controlled space to test the magnets.

Shipping and Receiving previously used this 4,800 square foot space for storage. A modernized storage system that includes a conveyor belt to mechanically retrieve items allowed the reallocation of the space to the MMF.

A major renovation followed, and the MMF was completed on schedule and without injury. "14,000 man-hours of work without even a finger cut," said Javier Sevilla.

"Thanks to XL Construction, ES&H, CEF, and all who played a role in getting this facility built safely and on schedule," said John Galayda. "We're looking forward to seeing it full of magnets soon."

—Kelen Tuttle
   SLAC Today, April 17, 2006