Advantages of second-generation high temperature superconductors for pulsed power applications

Within the past few years a newer, more robust type of superconductor known as Second-generation (2G) High Temperature Superconductor (HTS) wire, has become available in sufficient quantity and length for developers to build prototype devices and test their capabilities. This new material offers the potential for revolutionary changes in magnet technology, enabling more compact and higher performance systems that can meet the stringent demands of different pulsed power technologies, particularly for those in high energy density, nuclear, fusion and plasma applications. This manuscript will discuss the latest advantages and superior performance of the new Superpower^® 2G HTS superconductors. We will discuss the principal advantages over First-Generation (1G) Low Temperature Superconductors (LTS) and conventional conductors. We also discuss how pulsed power applications can benefit from their use and their suitability. We will show a wide range of extreme low and high temperature tests performed with currents up to 40 kA with Superpower^® 2G HTS that demonstrate superior performance and new capabilities. We also will illustrate different applications where Superpower^® 2G HTS can be the key to improving the performance, compactness and other capabilities of present pulsed power applications.