RHIC optics and spin dynamics with snakes and rotators

Abstract

The operation of RHIC collider rings in polarized proton runs includes helical snakes, which allow for preserving polarization during acceleration to store energies. The RHIC lattice also includes spin rotators, operated when nonvertical polarization or corrections to the orientation of polarization at the interaction points are required. Utilization of OPERA field maps of snakes and rotators has been systematized in the past decade, in order to assess in detail the effects of these spin devices on beam polarization, and their perturbative effects on beam optics. The method is also used in ongoing studies regarding the future Electron Ion Collider, to permit increasing average store polarization to at least 70% at 275 GeV and the acceleration of polarized helion with low polarization losses. This paper reviews various applications and outcomes of these field map methods. It is thereby also a review of studies undertaken as part of beam polarization research activities at RHIC in recent years.