Keeping the ELT’s Vision Clear: The Automation behind the Precision Maintenance for the World’s Largest Telescope

The mirror segments, designed to collect tens of millions of times as much light as the human eye, are made of a glass-ceramic material with very low thermal expansion. In order to achieve the highest possible sensitivity, they need to be recoated every 18 months, which means removing, recoating, and reinstalling two segments every day throughout the ELT’s lifespan. When Fagerström Industrikonsult AB was tasked with designing a washing and stripping plant, the Swedish company selected solutions for Process Automation by GF Piping Systems.

To dissolve the reflective layer, which is primarily made of silver, the washing and stripping plant uses sulfuric acid and cerium sulfate. The segments are then cleaned with ultrapure water and an air knife prior to recoating. After extensive material testing, GF Piping Systems supplied a complete solution consisting of manual and automated valves from the PROGEF product family as well as accessories such as LED position feedback sensors and spring return units. In addition, the company provided measurement sensors for critical parameters including level, pressure, and temperature.

PROGEF is a polypropylene welded piping system designed for durability and high chemical resistance, and therefore contributes to a long-lasting and reliable operation for Fagerström’s washing and stripping plant. At the same time, GF Piping Systems’ measurement sensors optimize compatibility while providing the operators with precise data for this essential process. When the ELT becomes operational at the end of the decade, the washing and stripping plant will play a role in advancing astrophysical knowledge, enabling a deeper exploration of the Universe and providing sharper images of cosmic objects than ever before.

Carl Johan Fagerström, CEO of Fagerström Industrikonsult AB, comments: “When developing and designing one-of-a-kind machines, it is important to understand both the project and the components we are selecting. The collaboration between GF Piping Systems and Fagerström was crucial for success.”

Peter Ernström, one of the Process Automation Specialists at GF Piping Systems who accompanied the entire project, comments: “Fagerström is pushing the boundaries of innovation with its unique solution for the world’s biggest optical telescope. Our extensive experience with process automation for chemical applications allowed us to support Fagerström throughout every project phase and supply a bespoke solution to turn their vision into reality.”

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