DUNE (Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment) is one of the most ambitious scientific research projects of our time. The project aims to study the behaviour of neutrinos – and, through this, to deepen our understanding of the fundamental mechanisms behind the origin of the universe. This is achieved by sending neutrino particles from deep underground across a distance of more than 1,000 kilometres, from North Dakota to another underground cavern.
In such research, every detail matters. When particles travel through an immense and highly sensitive experimental setup, even the smallest disturbance can compromise the accuracy of the results. For this reason, the DUNE project has imposed exceptionally strict requirements on all structures involved in the detection and measurement of neutrinos.
Stalatube supplied a batch of custom-manufactured stainless steel tubes for the project.
Stalatube’s tubes are used in structures that:
- have copper wires wound around them to measure the electrical charges generated when neutrinos interact with the detector.
- form parts of the system that isolate the measurement equipment from external disturbances. In the project, the underground cavern is filled with argon, which displaces air and ensures that air does not interfere with the actual measurements.
- serve as supporting structures for the particle detectors, from which Daresbury Laboratory builds the actual detection screens.
Precision requirements
- Tube length: 6 metres
- Straightness requirement: maximum torsional deviation of 0.1 degrees over the full 6-metre length
- Material: stainless steel
Each tube underwent a 30-minute, academically rigorous inspection programme, during which geometry, straightness, cut accuracy and torsional alignment were carefully measured.
Stalatube responded to the challenge immediately and organised its production to meet all project requirements without compromise.
The flexibility required by scientific research
As a leading manufacturer of stainless steel structural tubes, Stalatube’s core strength lies in its ability to adapt production to demanding project-specific requirements and deliver exactly the level of precision required by critical scientific research.
DUNE is a project in which neither measurements nor structures can deviate from target tolerances. Stalatube’s task was to deliver tubes whose straightness, geometry and material quality were literally critical to the success of the research. The successful delivery demonstrates that Stalatube is a reliable partner when production flexibility, process control and extreme precision are essential.
Main picture: The Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment