HTS Field Coil Pre-Quench Detection Using Strain and Magnetic Field
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Solution Overview
Problem
High temperature superconducting magnet systems face challenges in detecting pre-quench conditions, particularly in multi-coil systems where significant damage can occur due to large shifts in magnetic field and strain during current sharing, leading to potential uncontrolled quenches and damage.
Innovation Solution
A method and system for detecting pre-quench conditions in HTS magnet systems by monitoring strain and magnetic field shifts using sensors, comparing these measurements to expected profiles during normal operation, and activating a quench protection system to prevent or mitigate damage by safely ramping down the magnet.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If strain and magnetic field monitoring is implemented to detect pre-quench conditions, then reliability of HTS magnet system is improved, but device complexity increases due to additional sensors and monitoring systems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements preliminary detection of pre-quench conditions by monitoring strain and magnetic field changes before a quench occurs. Strain gauges and magnetic field sensors detect early signs of instability, allowing the system to take preventive action (ramping down current) before a full quench happens, thus improving reliability while managing complexity through early warning rather than complex real-time control
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses strain gauges and magnetic field sensors as intermediary elements that indirectly detect pre-quench conditions. Rather than directly monitoring the superconducting state, these sensors measure mechanical strain and magnetic field variations that precede quench, providing a simpler detection mechanism that improves reliability without requiring direct intervention in the superconducting material
2Productivity
If current sharing between turns is enabled through conductive material, then productivity of magnet system is improved, but object-generated harmful factors worsen due to large magnetic field shifts and strain during quench
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary anti-action by detecting pre-quench conditions through strain and magnetic field monitoring, then actively counteracting the developing quench by ramping down the magnet current before the full quench occurs. This prevents the large magnetic field shifts and strain that would otherwise be generated during uncontrolled current sharing and quench events
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the potentially harmful large magnetic field shifts and strain during quench into beneficial early warning signals. By monitoring these parameters, the system detects pre-quench conditions and takes preventive action, transforming what would be destructive effects into useful detection mechanisms that protect the system
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
Enables early detection of pre-quench conditions, allowing for timely intervention to prevent damage and ensure safe operation of HTS magnet systems, particularly in toroidal field coil sets of tokamaks, by utilizing strain and magnetic field sensors to monitor and respond to deviations from expected measurements.
Implementation Method 1
Strain is monitored for the HTS field coil and/or support structures of the HTS field coil
Implementation Method 2
A magnetic field of the HTS field coil is monitored
Data Source
AI summary
A method of detecting pre-quench conditions in a superconducting magnet comprising an HTS field coil. The field coil comprises a plurality of turns comprising HTS material and metallic stabilizer; and conductive material connecting the turns such that current can be shared radially between turns via the conductive material. Strain is monitored for the HTS field coil and/or support structures of the HTS field coil. The monitored strain is compared to an expected strain during normal operation of the magnet. In response to the comparison, it is determined whether the field coil is in pre-quench conditions. A similar method is provided where the magnetic field of the HTS field coil is monitored to detect pre-quench conditions, instead of the strain.