A Multifilament PIT V3Ga Conductor for HEPMagnet Applications

The high energy physics (HEP) research field employs high energy particle colliders to verify quantum theory, the existence of proposed subatomic particles, and theories of the origin of our universe. The development of multi-filament powder-in-tube (PIT) V3Ga superconductors would provide benefits over current Nb3Sn technology, enabling the capabilities of future HEP installations to be expanded. This project will develop and demonstrate an effective multifilament V3Ga conductor by the PIT process. The expected benefits over Nb-based conductors include higher, more consistent critical current density (Jc) at higher magnetic fields (15T - 20T), and increased strain resilience. In Phase I, jet milled Cu-Ga powders of varying Cu:Ga ratios will be packed into copper-clad V tubes fabricated from V foil or drilled-out V rods. The resulting tubes will be drawn and restacked into a 19-element hexagonal design, drawn into the final multifilament assembly, and heat treated at various temperatures. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: With inherent benefits over Nb-based conductors, V3Ga conductors could revolutionize the HEP field. Moreover, the establishment of efficient V3Ga multifilament conductors could speed the development of a commercial fusion machine, potentially providing an unlimited source of energy. Finally, resilient, high field multifilament V3Ga conductors could advance NMR technology, providing benefits to medical research and treatment.