[en] The paper discusses the methods and results of numerical simulations used in the development of a helical-coaxial explosive magnetic cumulative generator (EMG) with the stator up to 720 mm in diameter. In the process of designing, separate units were numerically modeled, as was the generator operation with a constant inductive-ohmic load. The 2-D processes of the armature acceleration by the explosion products were modeled as well as those of the formation of the sliding high-current contact between the armature and stator's insulated turns. The problem of the armature integrity in the region of the detonation waves collision was numerically analyzed. 8 figs., 2 refs

No abstract available

[en] Current leads that rely on high-temperature superconductors (HTSs) to deliver power to devices operating at liquid helium temperature have the potential to reduce refrigeration requirements to levels significantly below those achievable with conventional leads. The design of HTS current leads suitable for use in near-term superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) is in progress. The SMES system has an 0.5 MWh energy capacity and a discharge power of 30 MW. Lead-design considerations include safety and reliability, electrical and thermal performance, structural integrity, manufacturability, and cost. Available details of the design, including materials, configuration, and performance predictions, are presented

[en] SMES (Superconducting Magnetic Energy Storage) is an emerging technology offering tremendous potential benefits to the utility industry. San Diego Gas ampersand Electric (SDG ampersand E) and Bechtel are leading a team of companies and national laboratories working towards design and construction of the world's first demonstration facility for large, commercial SMES for enhancing transmission stability in the Southwestern United States

No abstract available

[en] Problem of mechanical effect of electromagnetic forces when high currents passing in coils of superconducting magnetic energy storages (SMES) is discussed. New concept of SMES with force-balanced coil (FBC) developed in the Research Laboratory for Nuclear Reactors (RLNR), Tokyo Institute of Technology (Tokyo Tech.) is performed. The system was based on spiral doughnut coils from superconducting NiTi alloy. Optimal operating conditions of the system conforms to the current in external coils in the range from -100 to +100 A

[en] An electric energy magnetic storage system is proposed, aimed at smoothing the transients induced by short power cutoffs in alternating current power networks such as medium voltage (20 kV) networks. It includes a coupling transformer, coupled to the network, and an inverter connected to a storage coil; a superconductive switch circuit is used for allowing a temporary power supply to the network, from the coil and the inverter, in case of a cutoff transient. The system is more especially designed for pressurized water pumping in nuclear plants

[en] The results of testing of the 30 MJ explosive magnetocumulative generator EMG-720 are reported. This comparatively simple and inexpensive generator is destined for energizing a stationary electro-physical facility placed in a special explosion-protected bunker. The current increase coefficient and the energy increase factor of the generator are as high as 500 and 120, respectively. The generator operating time is 225 s, and its internal operating voltage is higher than 100 kV. (J.U.). 4 figs., 4 refs

[en] We discuss theoretically the properties of an electromechanical oscillating system whose operation is based upon the cyclic conservative conversion between gravitational potential, kinetic and magnetic energies. The system consists of a superconducting coil subjected to a constant external force and to magnetic fields. The coil oscillates and has induced in it a rectified electrical current whose magnitude may reach hundreds of amperes. The design differs from that of most conventional superconductor machines since the motion is linear (and practically unnoticeable depending on frequency) rather than rotatory and it does not involve high speeds. Furthermore, there is no need for an external electrical power source to start up the system. We also show that the losses for such a system can be made extremely small for certain operational conditions, so that by reaching and keeping resonance the system's main application should be in the generation and storage of electromagnetic energy. (rapid communication)

[en] The evaluation of investments in longer term research and development in emerging technologies, because of the nature of such subjects, must address inherent uncertainties. Most notably, future cash flow forecasts include substantial uncertainties. Conventional present value methodology, when applied to emerging technologies severely penalizes cash flow forecasts, and strategic investment opportunities are at risk of being neglected. Use of options valuation methodology adapted from the financial arena has been introduced as having applicability in such technology evaluations. Indeed, characteristics of superconducting magnetic energy storage technology suggest that it is a candidate for the use of options methodology when investment decisions are being contemplated