Tune Resonance Phenomena in the SPS and related Machine Protection

The Super Proton Synchrotron (SPS) at CERN, with a peak energy of 450 GeV, is at the top of the LHC preaccelerator complex. SPS is at present the accelerator with the largest stored beam energy worldwide of up to 2.5 MJ. In 2008, a fast equipment failure led to an uncontrolled loss of a high intensity beam at an integer tune resonance, which resulted in major damage of a main dipole. Experimental studies and simulations provide clear understanding of the beam dynamics at different SPS tune resonances, that can lead to a complete beam loss in as little as 3 turns. Dedicated experiments of fast failures of the main power converters reveal that the current interlock systems are much too slow for an adequate machine protection. A new position interlock system, which is currently in the commissioning phase, will counteract the vulnerability of the SPS.