Cryogenic Power Electronics

The advent of second-generation high-temperature superconductors will have a dramatic effect on power systems and weapons systems for the military. The increased need for power density and close integration of power subsystems associated with superconductive devices and cables leads one to consider the merits of refrigerating the attached power electronics down to cryogenic temperatures (65 to 77 K), temperatures which are required to operate second generation superconductors. The most comprehensive study on the topic was a DARPA-funded investigation by General Atomics, MTECH Labs, and Oak Ridge National Lab, which examined three separate power systems for reduced temperature operation. The results indicate that significant savings in size, weight and efficiency can be realized following this approach. The goal of the proposed Phase II program is to demonstrate a prototype cryogenic three-phase PCM-2 inverter sub-module. The demo will serve as a model to compare cryogenic hardware with conventional IPS systems currently being developed by the Navy.