High temperature superconducting (HTS) current leads are important to products such as magnetic resonance imaging systems where they are used to minimize heat loads. However, the leads have virtually nonexistent current carrying capabilities while operating within magnetic fields, and they are fragile, brittle, and generally unreliable. Therefore, the HTS current leads are an impractical choice for many commercial and industrial applications. This project will develop hybrid HTS current leads which overcome both critical problems. The hybrid lead consists of an innovative HTS lower stage, providing high magnet field operation in addition to long term reliability. The lead also provides a high performance vapor cooled upper stage, optimized for minimal helium vapor cooling flow.
Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by the awardee:The development of reliable HTS leads are important to three U.S. export products: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) systems, superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) systems, and typical superconducting magnet systems. The HTS allow "helium free" operation in these systems in order to minimize the heat load and match the refrigerators low cooling capacity. In overseas countries, helium is expensive and helium consumption must be minimized.
