Technologies > R&D: Applied superconductivity and cryogenics
Cryogenic Supply System (CSS)
The cryogenic supply system is based on a closed loop forced-flow refrigeration configuration, where certain amount of cryogen is cooled down and it is pumped into the final user application to achieve the desired temperature.
The helium is pumped into the circuit at ambient temperature, and it passes through a series of heat exchangers and a cryocooler where it is cooled down. The system provides refrigeration for two circuits, the final application, typically a magnet, and a thermal shield.
The core of the CSS is a Sumitomo cryocooler that could be modified (increasing the number or the type of cryocooler) depending on the thermal requirements of the final application.
Helium free
No consumption of liquid helium. The system is based on the recirculation of helium gas.
Easy maintenance
The cryogenic supply system could be intervened without affecting the user’s application.
Remote cooling
Capable of providing liquid helium at a distance of 2 meters, with low thermal losses.
Operating safety
Operating at a distance, the system is safe from vibrations, magnetic fields, or component activation.
Uses
For MRI and NMR systems that still relies on liquid helium to operate. The CSS could be a cheap alternative to substitute this expensive and scarce element.
For electric machines that uses superconducting magnets that could benefit from a remote cooling. Applications that could profit from the separation of the magnetic and cooling system and require high operational safety and low maintenance.
R&D applications that could use an autonomous cooling system with scalable power for the construction of prototypes and design of experiments
Superconducting reciprocating electric machine
The Cylindrical Switched Reluctance Machine (CSRM) consists in a moving passive translator with no coils and a static active stator with circular coils.
The CSRM is the best candidate for a superconducting version since it avoids the limitations of the superconducting wire bending radius and it allows the use of a single cryostat which can be shared by the active and the passive sides. Besides, this type of linear machine has two advantages over conventional double-sided ones for applications in PTOs. One is the adequacy of the machine shape to the shape of the WEC (the Spar), which is normally circular. The second one is, again, the high Force Density.
High Power Density
Can deliver more power per unit volume or weight than conventional machines. This makes them more compact and lightweight, which is especially important in applications where space and weight are critical factors.
High Magnetic Field Strength
Which enables them to produce more torque than conventional machines of the same size. This makes them ideal for applications that require high torque, such as in wind turbines or marine propulsion systems.
Reduced Environmental Impact
More energy-efficient, which reduces greenhouse gas emissions and helps to conserve natural resources. The use of superconducting materials reduces the need for rare-earth elements.
High Efficiency
Superconducting electrical machines have zero electrical resistance, which means they can operate at very high efficiencies. This reduces energy losses and improves the overall efficiency of the machine.
Lower Maintenance
Few moving parts than conventional machines and no moving cryogenic connections compared to other superconducting alternatives.
Uses
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