Direct SC-SC Joint for Superconducting Cable Systems
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Solution Overview
Problem
Prior art superconducting element joints, particularly plug-in type conductor splices, result in higher Ohmic and cryogenic losses, which accumulate in long cables and are inefficient, especially for DC cables where ac losses are significant, and introduce manufacturing and utilization complexities due to their complex design.
Innovation Solution
A direct SC-SC transition joint with a staggering arrangement that reduces Ohmic and cryogenic losses by eliminating intermediate non-superconducting conductor sections, enhancing mechanical strength, current rating, and high voltage capabilities, while maintaining a slim cable profile and simplifying the joining process across different geometries and types of superconducting cables.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If plug-in type conductor splice with intermediate non-superconducting conductor section is used, then the joint structure is simpler to manufacture, but Ohmic losses and cryogenic losses increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The invention removes the intermediate non-superconducting conductor section from the joint structure, creating a direct superconducting-to-superconducting connection. This extraction eliminates the source of Ohmic losses and reduces cryogenic losses while maintaining manufacturing feasibility through direct bonding or welding of superconducting elements.
Solution Approach 2:
The invention changes the electrical conductivity parameter of the joint by eliminating the non-superconducting intermediate section. This parameter change transforms the joint from having high resistance (non-superconducting) to low resistance (superconducting), thereby reducing energy losses significantly.
2Loss of energy
If direct SC-SC transition joint is used, then Ohmic and cryogenic losses are reduced, but manufacturing complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The invention merges the superconducting elements directly without intermediate non-superconducting sections. This merging creates a unified superconducting path that reduces energy losses while the complexity is managed through standardized bonding or welding processes suitable for superconducting materials.
3Ease of operation
If plug-in type conductor splice is used, then ease of operation is improved, but mechanical strength and current rating are compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The invention prepares the superconducting elements in advance with appropriate contact surfaces and bonding interfaces, allowing direct joining that maintains high mechanical strength and current rating. The preliminary preparation ensures that the direct SC-SC connection achieves optimal performance without requiring complex assembly operations.
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
The solution significantly reduces Ohmic and cryogenic losses, maintains or improves mechanical strength and current ratings, and simplifies the manufacturing and cooling of superconducting cable systems, achieving performance comparable to virgin cables with reduced bulk and increased reliability.
Implementation Method 1
a first means (206) of an electrically superconducting direct SC-SC transition joint
Implementation Method 2
Ohmic losses can be reduced by forced cooling
Data Source
AI summary
The invention relates to a superconducting element joint comprising a joint between two superconducting elements comprising at least one direct SC-SC transition joint. By the invention an improved superconducting element joint may be obtained. The invention also relates to a process for providing such superconducting element joint and a superconducting cable system comprising such superconducting element joint.