Properties of a prototype Bi-based HTS composite with a high resistivity sheath for resistive fault current limiting applications

Abstract

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Application Fields of High-Temperature Superconductors

“…With regard to energy losses, a quarter of the losses of 5 -10 % of the transported power in power distribution systems are due to transformers. The use of a winding based on a HTS conductor with fault current limiting functionality [79] is an additional option. ABB tested a 630 kW -3 phase transformer based on Bi-2223/Ag tape conductor successfully at a Swiss utility for one year under regular operational conditions [82].…”

“…The material problem to be solved is the spatial homogeneity of the local critical current density on the length scale of the thermal diffusion length because otherwise the power is not dissipated homogeneously, but directed into hot spots, destroying the material. This homogeneity has been achieved up to now only for Bi-2212 bulk [75], Bi-2223 tapes [79] and YBCO tapes [80] and YBCO thin films [81]. A 1.2 MW-3 phase-FCL by ABB based on Bi-2212 bulk rings acting as secondary winding of a transformer-like device has been tested for one year in a Swiss power plant without major problems [75].…”