AN ION SOURCE USING LITHIUM VAPOR EXCHANGE AND GIVING SEVERAL MICROAMPERES OF 4HE- OR 3HE-

An optical bench type ion source has been developed which uses lithium vapor exchange. The lithium reservoir holds a charge sufficient for over 350 h of operation and can be changed rapidly without disturbing the electrode alignment. The source has interchangeable exchange canals for operating with either lithium or hydrogen exchange. A coupling has been developed which enables the cooling lines to be coupled easily and without leakage problems. The use of freon as a coolant avoids previous problems with spillage of high vapor pressure coolant oil inside the vacuum system. © 1969.