Getting Ready for Physics - Commissioning of the ALICE Experiment

ALICE at CERN-LHC is an experiment dedicated to the study of high-energy heavy-ion collision. In this paper we will briefly describe the experimental layout and give an overview on the installation status of the ALICE detector components including an outlook towards the completion of the staged detector setup. We will review the commissioning of the detector components with emphasis on the central detectors, in particular the time projection chamber (TPC). The commissioning took place in summer 2008 awaiting the first beams from the LHC in the fall. The result from commissioning are compared with the performance figures, which are outlined in the ALICE Physics Performance Reports.Comment: Proceedings Lake Louise Winter Institute 2009, 16th-21st February 2009, Alberta, Canad

Fluid coupling Patent

Two component valve assembly for cryogenic liquid transfer regulatio

Quick-disconnect coupling safe transfer of hazardous fluids

Quick-disconnect coupling is used for uncoupling of plumbing during ground-to-vehicle transfer of cryogenic and hazardous fluids. The coupling allows remote positive control of liquid pressure and flow during the transfer operation, remote connection and separation capabilities, and negligible liquid spillage upon disconnection