Author : Paras Katti, Shweta Badhan and V. S. Kanthale

Materials which shows superconductivity above liquid nitrogen temperature are known as high temperature superconductors. J.G. Bednorz and K.A. Mueller were awarded noble prize for discovering high temperature superconductors in 1987. Since last 3 decades there has been significant augmentation in the field of superconductivity. The primary advantage of HTS power cable over conventional cable is the ability to carry more power per circuit with lower energy cost per megawatt delivered. Power transmission is loosely defined as the transfer of electrical energy from source to a load over conductors that carry relatively large currents, while being maintained at large voltage. In order to achieve liquid nitrogen temperature, efficient cryogenic system is required. Hence, it is integrated with HTS power cables. Several HTS cables have been designed, developed and operated in various parts around the world. Most of them are used for experimentation purpose. Very few of them are used in electrical grids. Use of high temperature superconductivity in electrical grids will have a major positive impact on power system operation and control. HTS power cable is placed into heat-insulated pipe which is filled with cryogen. Circulation of cryogen removes heat seeping through the insulation. HTS power cables with different design considerations can be used for transmission of AC and DC.

Keywords: Superconductor, cryogen, HTS Power Cable, Cryogenics, Liquid Nitrogen