Parametric representation of a superconducting high-current generator

An equivalent circuit model of a superconducting high-current brushless generator, the rotating-spot flux pump, is derived. The idealized version of the flux pump consists of a superconducting strip and a reciprocating magnet. This configuration has been used to make the mathematics manageable. Various design parameters describing the performance of the flux pump are derived. These derivations are used to determine the equivalent circuit model of the flux pump. The internal inductance of the pump associated with the switching loss is estimated from the surface current distribution on the superconducting sheet. The inductive transfer effects taking place in the pump are discussed, and a numerical example is given to provide an idea of the order of magnitude of the design parameters. The results of the calculations point to the advantages of the low internal inductance of the flux pump and of the current switching occurring as late as possible in the pumping cycle