Characteristics of superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) energized by a high-voltage SCR converter

A small-scale Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage(SMES) unit was constructed using small magnets and a high-voltage converter, and the characteristics of this unit were examined. The high output voltage of the converter makes it possible for even a small magnet to charge and discharge large power. Moreover, converter control provides adequate protection during quenching. AC and DC filters can be eliminated from the converter system, and ripple voltage does not harm the superconducting magnet. These features demonstrated the potential of an SMES unit as a power system stabilizer and a peak load power supply.