Application of high temperature superconductivity to electric motor design

The authors report on progress made in a study of the possible application of HTSC (high-temperature superconductor) materials to electric motors. Specific applications are identified which can be beneficially served by motors constructed with HTSC materials. A summary of the components and design issues related to HTSC motors designed for these applications is presented. During the course of this development program, a three-tier HTSC wire performance specification has evolved. The three specifications and the rationale behind these three levels of performance are explained. A description of a test motor that has been constructed to verify the electromagnetic analytical techniques of HTSC motor design is given. A DC motor with an HTSC field coil is described. Measured data obtained with the motor running are presented, showing that the motor operates with the field winding in the superconducting state