Superconducting electromagnets for large wind tunnel magnetic suspension and balance systems

This paper presents a new design study of a Magnetic Suspension and Balance System (MSBS) for airplane models in a large 8 ft × 8 ft wind tunnel. New developments in the design include: use of a superconducting solenoid as a model core instead of magnetized iron; combination of permanent magnet material in the model wings along with four racetrack coils to produce the required roll torque; and mounting of all the magnets in an integral cold structure instead of in separate cryostats. Design of superconducting solenoid model cores and practical experience with a small-scale prototype are discussed.