Speaker
Description
For over four decades, we have specialised in high-temperature superconductor (HTS) technology. The current-carrying capacity, manufacturability and practical performance of the conductors has increased significantly.
A variety of materials were considered for use as practical conductors. However, the current focus of R&D and industrial efforts is primarily, although not exclusively, on ReBCO tape conductors for the fabrication of cables and coils. These include high-field magnet facilities, magnets for fusion devices, power transmission, electric motors, magnetic levitation and medical technologies.
While current tape technology may be adequate for low-energy stationary devices, more development is necessary for larger-scale high-energy devices and varying field magnets, which require cables and large coils. It is essential that this technology evolves to ensure stable and reliable operation, initially in demonstrator models and subsequently in commercial devices.
There are still several challenges to be addressed, including manufacturing costs, material brittleness, electrical and mechanical anisotropy, AC loss, quench protection, and cooling requirements at 20 - 40 K level.
The promises, problems and prospects of HTS technology in terms of achieving a more efficient and sustainable future are addressed.