Development of current leads using electrolytically deposited BSCCO 2212 tapes

Prototype current leads of BSCCO 2212 are being developed using the sequential electrolytic deposition of precursors on a silver or a silver alloy tape and heat treatments. The tapes are made using a continuous industrial process. This method of deposition, gives great flexibility in minimizing the mechanical stresses, the thermal conductivity and in ensuring the quench protection. Functional models were tested at 4.2 K in magnetic fields up to 7 T and in self-field at 77 K. The maximum currents reached were 1000 A at 4.2 K and 100 A at 77 K.