Optimization of Mechanical Supports for Large Superconductive Magnets

Abstract

Load-bearing thermal insulators are often required in the construction of cryogenic dewars. Superconducting magnets in some cases also require the extensive use of mechanical struts anchored in the low-temperature region on one end, while the other end of the strut rests on room temperature frames. One such extreme example occurs in the design of superconductive solenoids for use as energy storage magnets. Since the cost of a cold structure would be excessive, it is necessary to support such solenoids in bedrock (which is cost free except for minor excavation charges) by means of epoxy-fiberglass struts. As an example, one large unit requires that 14 × 10⁶ metric tons of force be transmitted from 1.8 K conductors to room temperature rock surfaces as efficiently as possible.

Supported by National Science Foundation, Wisconsin Alumni Research Foundation and by the Wisconsin Electric Utilities Research Foundation.