Vertical Tests of ESS Medium Beta Prototype Cavities at LASA

In the framework of the INFN activity related to the European Spallation Source collaboration, the LASA infrastructure has been renewed to allow the qualification, in its vertical cryostat, of the 704 MHz medium beta cavity prototypes. A new cryogenic insert has been realized, fully equipped with dedicated mechanical supports, vacuum, thermal sensors and quench diagnostic systems. The RF test station has been upgraded as well with a new PLL electronics rack. The first beta 0.67 cavity prototype designed and produced by INFN Milano has been successfully cold tested at 2.0 K temperature, outperforming the ESS specifications. The technical features of LASA infrastructure, the design of novel components and the experimental results of cavities cold-tests are thoroughly described in this paper.