Researchers at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory have come up with a way to create powerful magnets.
For their magnet, scientists usedsuperconducting round core cable (CORC). Wires created using this technology do not need conventional epoxy and fiberglass insulation for electricity to flow. As a result, a denser winding can be achieved and a powerful, smaller magnetic coil can be created.
High temperature superconducting magnet. Image: Kiran Sudarsanan, Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory
High temperature superconducting magnets havea number of advantages over copper wire magnets, the authors of the development explain. They can be used for longer without interruption because they do not heat up as quickly. At the same time, superconducting wires are able to transmit the same amount of electric current as a copper wire many times wider, while creating a stronger magnetic field.
Superconducting cable on a round core. Photo: Advanced Conductor Technologies
Physicists believe the new magnets will help reduce the size of the tokamak, increasing productivity and reducing the cost of building a fusion reactor.
Tokamaks are sensitive to conditions in theircentral areas, including the size of the central magnet or solenoid, shielding and vacuum vessel. Much depends on the center. So if you can shrink something in the middle, you can shrink the whole machine and lower costs, theoretically increasing productivity.
John Menard, Associate Director for Research at the Princeton Plasma Physics Laboratory
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