Device with multiple layers of high-temperature superconducting (HTS) tapes

The invention refers to a method for making a device conformed with multiple layers of high-temperature superconducting (HTS) tapes comprising graphite sheets interposed between the layers of the tapes.

How does it work?

The invention covered by the patent is about the use of a filling material with electrical and anisotropic thermal properties that is a “not too good” electrical conductor and a good thermal conductor.

The pyrolytic graphite sheets proved to be ideal for this purpose. In particular, they were interposed between the HTS tape windings. Thanks to its electrical and thermal anisotropic properties, the use of graphite sheets between the windings of the HTS tapes represents a promising solution to optimize the charging time and mitigate the quenching effects in high-field superconducting magnets, combining the advantages of non-insulated winding technology with the insulated winding technology.

Applications

• Production of HTS tapes externally coated with pyrolytic graphite on one or both surfaces for high field magnets for accelerators;
• Production of HTS tapes for the MRI field;
• Production of metal or polymer tapes externally coated with graphite for high-temperature superconductors.

Advantages

• more foldable, flexible and manageable device;
• Cost-effective;
• Graphite is used as a lubricant in cryogenics, which allows to minimise the problems caused by shrinkage and expansion. Furthermore, delamination of the HTS tapes is prevented;
• There is no need for grease, glues or resins;
• Production of lighter magnets;
• Graphite is radiation resistant, so it can be used in high-field magnets in particle accelerators.