Structural advantages of disk magnets for SMES

A simple reorientation of the strip solenoid allows improvements in the support of an SMES magnet. A large diameter storage magnet is the focus of the study, but smaller applications are discussed. For large diameters, the peak field and energy storage are nearly the same for a strip solenoid and a disk magnet. The characteristics and benefits of the disk magnet arrangement are discussed. The disk geometry allows improved access for maintenance, reduces excavation and facilitates the repair of conductors. Shimmed radial support at the outer edge allows controlled thermal contraction and control of conductor strains and is a simplification over rippled solutions proposed independently. Winding pack radial loads produce compressive stresses, no out-of-plane loads develop and there are no bending or shear loads in the winding pack.