Applications of superconducting magnets to energy with particular emphasis on fusion power
Abstract
The feasibility of employing superconducting magnets for energy conversion and energy storage, in addition to the use of superconductivity in power transmission, is explored. Prospects for commercial use of superconducting homopolar machines and MHD generators appear optimistic. Problems to be solved in the use of superconducting synchronous machines include: turboalternator design, heat transfer and helium flow in rotating channels, fatigue and structure at cryogenic temperatures, and long-life rotating helium seals and vacuum seals. Fusion power via magnetic confinement remains the principal prospect for utilization of superconductivity in energy. Inductive energy storage systems are examined and compared to flywheel systems. Reliability of superconducting windings and their structure remain serious problems.
- Publication:
-
Cryogenic Engineering Conference
- Pub Date:
- 1976
- Bibcode:
- 1976cgen.conf..115K
- Keywords:
-
- Cryogenic Magnets;
- Energy Technology;
- Fusion Reactors;
- Power Reactors;
- Superconducting Magnets;
- Energy Storage;
- Magnetohydrodynamic Generators;
- Turbogenerators;
- Electronics and Electrical Engineering