Estimation method of stability for multi-strand superconducting cables under partial current distribution

The stability margin of CIC multi-strand superconducting cables under partial current distribution is affected by electrical resistance among the strands. This means that the stability is governed by the current sharing process among the strands. The achievement of high stability against partial current distribution will be realized by rapid current transfer to the other strands rather than by thermal diffusion of Joule heating to helium. A simplified electrical circuit model, that is a distributed constant circuit for two strands, simulating the current sharing process between strands, is proposed to estimate the stability. The results of the stability analysis, clarify the limiting condition to maintain stability. The circuit constants governing the sharing process can be investigated from the frequency properties of a characteristic impedance measured with CICC short samples. These results are confirmed with experimental results of stability tests under partial current distribution. The proposed estimation method is viable.<>