A New PIT Nb3Sn Process, Toward Improved Cost-Performance for HEP High Field Magnets

The development of improved, cost-effective Nb3Sn superconductors would have an immediate benefit for high field magnets in High Energy Physics (HEP) applications. This project will develop and demonstrate an economical powder-in-tube (PIT) Nb3Sn process for use in magnets for future HEP accelerator research. In Phase I, a low-cost, intermetallic, phase-pure Cu5Sn4 powder was developed, a PIT Nb3Sn process was designed, and prototype Nb3Sn conductors were fabricated. A cost-performance analysis was conducted, which suggested that the approach will meet DOE goals. In Phase II, powder manufacturing will be optimized, and advanced PIT designs will be fabricated on intermediate size billets. The data will be used to assemble and manufacture a scaled-up prototype conductor. Material will be produced and made available for building and testing prototype cables and test magnets at DOE national laboratories. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: In addition to HEP applications, an economical Nb3Sn superconductor would have application in high field magnets used in fusion machines and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR). For fusion machines, a successful demonstration would have enormous economic and social benefits. For NMR, we are on the verge of a technological explosion, with requirements in chemical research, biochemistry, pharmaceutical chemistry, polymer science, petroleum research, agricultural chemistry, and medicine