What limits superconducting machine power density?

In summary, the conversation discusses the potential and limitations of power density in electric generators and motors with superconductive coils. While traditional iron cores can limit power density due to magnetic saturation, coreless/ironless designs have the potential for higher power density, with current designs reaching 20 kW/kg and future designs potentially reaching 30-50 kW/kg. However, there is a maximum current limit determined by the magnetic flux in the superconductor, as the Meissner state breaks down when the applied magnetic field is too strong.
  • #1
Stormer
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Hi. There has been a fair amount of research into electric generators and motors with superconductive coils. If traditional iron cores is used that obviously limits the power density because of the iron cores magnetic saturation point. But for coreless/ironless designs i don't understand what limits the power density? From what i have read they are talking about 20 kW/kg with current designs and maybe up to 30-50 kW/kg in the future. But can you not just pump as much current as you want into a superconducting wire without generating any heat or resistivity and therefore have almost as big of a power density as you want (as long as it can mechanically handle the torque and speed)? What limits the current able to be passed trough a superconducting wire?
 
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  • #2
Stormer said:
But can you not just pump as much current as you want into a superconducting wire

No.

Eventually it goes normal.
 
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Stormer said:
What limits the current able to be passed trough a superconducting wire?
There is a maximum current limit determined by the magnetic flux in the superconductor.
The Meissner state breaks down when the applied magnetic field is too strong.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Superconductivity#Meissner_effect
 
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What limits superconducting machine power density?

There are several factors that can limit the power density of a superconducting machine. The most frequently asked questions about this topic include:

1. What is the critical current density and how does it affect power density?

The critical current density is the maximum amount of electrical current that can flow through a superconductor before it loses its superconducting properties. This is an important factor in determining the power density of a superconducting machine, as a higher critical current density allows for a higher power output.

2. How does the operating temperature affect power density?

Superconductors have a critical temperature at which they lose their superconducting properties. The lower the operating temperature of a superconducting machine, the higher the critical current density and therefore the higher the power density. However, achieving and maintaining very low temperatures can be challenging and expensive.

3. What role do materials play in limiting power density?

The choice of materials used in a superconducting machine can greatly impact its power density. Some materials have higher critical current densities and can operate at lower temperatures, allowing for higher power densities. However, these materials can also be more expensive and difficult to work with.

4. How does the design and construction of the machine affect power density?

The design and construction of a superconducting machine can also play a significant role in its power density. Factors such as the geometry, winding configuration, and cooling system can all impact the critical current density and operating temperature, and therefore the power density.

5. Are there any practical limitations to achieving higher power densities in superconducting machines?

While superconducting materials and technologies continue to advance, there are still practical limitations to achieving higher power densities in superconducting machines. These include the cost and complexity of the materials and cooling systems, as well as the challenges of maintaining stable and reliable operation at very low temperatures.

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