An HTS machine laboratory prototype

This paper describes Superwind HTS machine laboratory setup which is a small scale HTS machine designed and build as a part of the efforts to identify and tackle some of the challenges the HTS machine design may face. One of the challenges of HTS machines is a Torque Transfer Element (TTE) which is in this design integral part of the cryostat. The discussion of the requirements for the TTE supported with a simple case study comparing a shaft and a cylinder as candidates for TTE are presented. The discussion resulted with a cylinder as a TTE design rated for a 250Nm and with more then 10 times lower heat conduction compared to a shaft. The HTS machine was successfully cooled to 77K and tests have been performed. The IV curves of the HTS field winding employing 6 HTS coils indicate that two of the coils had been damaged. The maximal value of the torque during experiments of 78Nm was recorded. Loaded with 33%, the TTE performed well and showed sufficient margin for future experiments.