Examination arrangement

Course content

This doctoral course is set up as an in-depth study of emerging and selected topics in high-temperature superconductivity (HTS) and cryogenics. In particular, the covered content includes the general theory of superconductivity, HTS materials and their characteristics, AC superconductor loss models, cryogenic refrigeration methods and their applicability, and thermal insulation material.

The main application of the course is superconducting electrical machines (SCMs) that are characterized by high power density and high efficiency. Here, the superconductors must operate well within the boundary conditions defined by the critical parameters (temperature, current and magnetic field). The SCMs must be designed such that they maintain sufficient margins to the critical parameters under all operating conditions. It is equally important that the cryogenic refrigeration system is able to provide adequate and controlled conditions under operation.

In course material number 1, the following chapters are relevant:

- Chapter 1: Fundamental science and engineering of high-temperature superconductor (HTS) materials and components

- Chapter 2: High-temperature superconductor (HTS) wires and tapes

- Chapter 6: Cryogenics for high-temperature superconductor (HTS) systems

- Chapter 7: Electromagnetic modeling of high-temperature superconductor (HTS) materials and applications

- Chapter 10: Application of high-temperature superconductor (HTS) technology in rotating machinery

In course material number 2, the following chapters are relevant:

- Chapter 1: Principles of cryostat design, 1.2 Cryogenic properties of materials, 1.2.1 Thermal contraction, 1.2.2 Thermal conductivity.

In course material number 3, the following chapters are relevant:

- Chapter 2: Superconductivity and theoretical overview

- Chapter 3: Modelling of HTS-based superconducting coils

Learning outcome

Knowledge: After completing the course, the student will

- have in-depth knowledge of high temperature superconducting (HTS) materials and their characteristics

- understand the general theory of superconductivity

- have a detailed knowledge of superconductor operation requirements and the interdependencies between critical parameters

- have the theoretical basis for establishing superconductor AC loss models

- understand different cryogenic refrigeration methods and their applicability

- have knowledge about thermal insulation materials and their characteristics

Skills: After the conclusion of this Ph.D. course, the student will be able to

- evaluate and select HTS materials for a superconducting application

- establish superconductor models for use in analytical estimations and numerical simulations

- analyze the cryogenic cooling requirements and devise an appropriate cryogenic refrigeration system

General competence: After completing the course, the Ph.D. student has increased:

- skills in identifying crucial challenges in the field by acquiring, processing, and evaluating information from various scientific sources.

- ability to communicate effectively to professionals and non-specialists alike through presentations

- ability to contribute to innovation and innovation processes

Learning methods and activities

The teaching is based on a colloquium approach, where each topic is briefly presented before a more detailed discussion takes place. All participants must prepare before the colloquium. The course will be given in English if necessary.

Each student will write a report containing a comprehensive analysis dealing with a selected topic covered by the course. The student must also review the other students' reports before providing feedback in a separate report. Both of these requirements must be fulfilled before successful completion of the course.

Specific conditions

Recommended previous knowledge

TFE4120 Electromagnetics, TET4110 - Electrical Machines and Electromagnetic Energy Conversion, TEP4120 - Engineering Thermodynamics 1, or similar.

Course materials

1. Ziad Melhem, "High temperature superconductors (HTS) for energy applications", Woodhead Publishing, 2012, pp. 1-62, 181-214, 216-250, 320-343.
2. J.G. Weisend II (editor), "Cryostat design: Case Studies, Principles and Engineering (International Cryogenics Monograph Series)", Springer, 2018, pp. 1-42.
3. Mark Ainslie, "Transport AC loss in high temperature superconducting coils", PhD thesis, King’s College, University of Cambridge, 2012.
4. Torbjörn Wass, "Studies of high-temperature superconducting tapes and their application in power apparatus", PhD thesis, KTH, 2012.
5. Steven W. Van Sciver, "Cryogenic systems for superconducting devices", Physica C354, 2001, pp. 129- 135.