Transverse beam dynamics studies with high intensity LHC beams in the SPS

In order to reach the target beam parameters of the LHC injectors upgrade (LIU), about twice the presently operational intensity of LHC type beams has to be achieved. Although the planned upgrade of the main RF system will occur during the long shutdown, a series of measurements have been performed to assess the beam dynamics challenges with these very high intensity beams on the long SPS injection plateau. Bunch-by-bunch transverse emittance blow-up measurements suggested the presence of electron-cloud. After a period of running with the high intensity beam for a couple of days, a clear improvement of beam quality was observed which is attributed to scrubbing. In addition, a horizontal headtail instability is encountered for the usual operational settings of chromaticity and transverse damper. The stability limit as a function of chromaticity and Landau octupole settings has been explored and will be discussed, together with possible sources of the instability and mitigation strategies.