Demountable HTS Cable Joint for Grid Repair
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Solution Overview
Problem
The existing technologies face challenges in creating demountable connections between sections of high temperature superconductor (HTS) cables, which are essential for flexible power transmission and distribution grids, as current solutions are permanent and do not allow for easy replacement or reconfiguration of HTS cable pieces.
Innovation Solution
A method and device for connecting prefabricated HTS cable pieces onsite, featuring a three-joint system that includes an electrical joint, a cryogenic coolant flow enclosure, and a vacuum space seal, allowing for disassembly and reassembly, enabling the replacement of HTS cables and reconfiguration of the grid.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If permanent connections are used between HTS cable sections, then connection reliability is improved, but adaptability and ease of repair deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system is divided into separate modular components including a first coupling half, a second coupling half, and intermediate sections. Each component can be independently installed, removed, and replaced, enabling demountable connections while maintaining system reliability through standardized interfaces and secure mechanical engagement.
2Reliability
If permanent connections are used between HTS cable sections, then connection reliability is improved, but ease of repair deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connection system transitions from a static permanent joint to a dynamic demountable connection. The coupling halves are designed with mechanical features that allow for repeated assembly and disassembly operations while maintaining consistent electrical and mechanical performance, facilitating easy repair and replacement of HTS cable sections.
3Adaptability or versatility
If demountable connections are developed for HTS cables, then adaptability and ease of repair are improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The complex requirements for demountable HTS cable connections are addressed by segmenting the system into specialized subsystems: electrical contacts for current flow, cryogenic seals for coolant containment, and mechanical couplings for structural integrity. Each subsystem independently handles specific functions, reducing overall system complexity through modular design.
Solution Approach 2:
The coupling halves are designed as multi-functional components that simultaneously provide electrical connection, cryogenic sealing, and mechanical support. This integration of multiple functions into unified components reduces the number of separate parts and simplifies the assembly process, offsetting the inherent complexity of demountable design.
4Ease of repair
If demountable connections are developed for HTS cables, then ease of repair is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling halves are pre-assembled with integrated electrical contacts, cryogenic seals, and mechanical fastening features before field installation. This preliminary preparation reduces on-site complexity and enables quick repair operations by allowing entire coupling assemblies to be pre-tested and rapidly exchanged without complex field assembly procedures.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution provides a flexible and reliable method for connecting and disconnecting HTS cables, maintaining continuous current flow and cryogenic coolant circulation while ensuring vacuum insulation, facilitating repairs and reconfigurations in power transmission and distribution grids.
Implementation Method 1
The joint must also maintain vacuum in the heat insulation space between the outer wall of the cryostat and the boundary of the cryogenic space of the conductor
Implementation Method 2
The joint has to support continuous flow of current in the conductor and cryogenic coolant in the cryogenic space
Data Source
AI summary
A method of connecting prefabricated pieces of an HTS cable onsite is disclosed. This quick and reliable procedure of connecting pieces of HTS cable adds to the flexibility of designing and installing power transmission and distribution grids. The joint can also be dissembled such that it can be dismantled for replacing the cable on one side of the connection. The joint can then be reassembled with a new cable in its place. This facilitates repairing the electrical grid in case of local damage to the cable, as well as reconfiguring the grid in case this is required. The complexity of creating demountable HTS cable joints is due to the necessity to create and maintain continuity of several media across the joint along the length of the cable. Various combinations of design options satisfying these requirements are possible.