Conceptual design of a Superconducting 30 T solenoid using wire-in-conduit conductors

A conceptual design is presented for a distributed reinforcement conductor that enables the use of presently available, high current density, round cross-sectional wire for high field superconducting magnets. One of the disadvantages of providing separate structural reinforcement on the outer diameter of layer wound coils is the inherent thermal and mechanical stresses developed at the interface between the superconductor and reinforcement. This paper proposes a new concept, a single wire in conduit (WIC), for a distributed reinforcement conductor configuration which not only eliminates the problem of interface stresses, but introduces coolant directly to the superconducting wire where it will be more effective in providing a stable operating environment. The materials required for the proposed configuration are discussed and a conceptual design for a 30 T superconducting solenoid using the WIC conductor is described. The areas of WIC conductor technology requiring development and characterization are discussed.