Mechanical stability of the LHC dipole-dipole 50-75K thermal shield interconnect: "floating" expansion joint concept

The LHC dipole cryostats are equipped with thermal shields carrying super-insulation. A cold helium transfer line equipped with expansion joints is integrated into the shield carrying trays (aluminium profiles supported on three composite feet). The stainless steel (316 L) expansion joints compensate for thermal contraction/expansion of the aluminium panels as well as for their misalignment. Design of the LHC thermal shield interconnect is based on the "floating" expansion joint concept (distance between the supports is of around 5 m). The present paper is dedicated to the analysis of mechanical stability of this large span system working at room and at cryogenic temperatures.