Development of Joint Methods for 2G HTS Tape High-Current Cables

Future magnets for Fusion Energy Systems require superconducting cables with improved high critical current carrying capacity at high magnetic fields, 20 kelvin operation, low AC losses and lower cost. The second generation high temperature superconductors are manufactured in tape form that has differing transverse resistivity from the top compared to the bottom of the conductor. An new method of fabricating a high current joints with 2G HTS tapes has been developed that will avoid this asymmetrical electrical behavior and allow uniform current distribution. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits: Future fusion and related superconducting magnets for HEP applications will become more feasible if this project is successful. Additionally, the technology developed if this project is successful can find application in commercial high field magnets for NMR, FT-ICR, and other analytic magnet applications.