Abstract
The research works on superconducting magnet for MHD electrical power generator were begun in 1966 at Electrotechnical Laboratory. The works have been done by three groups, namely (1) development group of superconducting magnets, (2) cryogenic engineering group and (3) research group of superconducting material.
(1) The magnet group has constructed and tested a saddle shaped magnet for about 1kW MHD generator. It has the following characteristics:
Bore diameter: 29cm, Outer diameter: 76cm, Length: 76cm,
Critical current: 455Amp. Maximum central flux density: 2.4T.
Fully stabilized to 510Amp.
(2) The cryogenic group has been developing expansion engines for large refrigerators. The design characteristics of the turbine are as follows:
Expansion ratio: 4, Efficiency: 65%,
Helium gas flow rate: 106.6g/sec. Number of revolution: 345, 000rpm,
Bearing: lubricated by helium gas,
(3) The material group has been researching the stabilized superconducting wires. The members are investigating how to cool the superconductor in a magnet, how to compose stabilized wires and preparation of new superconducting materials.
