THE MAIN BUILDING FOR THE 7 G ELECTRON-VOLT PROTON SYNCHROTRON AT HARWELL

The proton synchrotron itself and its function are described only where this is necessary for an appreciation of the associated foundation and structural problems. The rigorous permissible limits of settlement and distortion of the supports for the machine are indicated, together with the very heavy radiation shielding required. The general arrangement of the buildings for the project is indicated. A more detailed account is given of the main underground building which includes a room 200 ft in diameter. Heavy load concentrations are entailed, with 6,000 tons of removable shielding. The development of the design of the building on a yielding chalk foundation is described resulting in the choice of two monoliths to carry the loads, supplemented by a complex of heavily loaded ancillary structures; these include an unusual two-span reinforced concrete bridge with a solid steel central pier and a copper bearing. (auth)