Development of
Magnesium Diboride-based Superconductor/Metal Matrix Composite Wire for use in
Superconducting Transformers
Matthew J. Holcomb
03-03
EISG Project
Title: Development of Magnesium Diboride-based Superconductor/Metal Matrix
Composite Wire for use in Superconducting Transformers
EISG Grant Number: 03-03
PIER Area: Energy Systems Integration
Principal Investigator: Matthew J. Holcomb
Contact Information: Phone:
(310) 567-6397, email:
mholcomb@novewire.com
Organization: Nove Technologies, Inc.
Grant Amount: $72,060
Grant Term: 12 Months
Project Description:
§ Proposes to determine the feasibility of developing a robust high-current Magnesium Diboride-based Superconductor/Metal Matrix Composite wire and tape for use in superconducting transformers operating at temperature in excess of 20K.
Proposed Outcomes:
§ Short and long (>10m) sections of wire will be developed and tested as part of the project.
Anticipated Benefits:
§ Potential to reduce grid transformer losses by 40%.
§ Potential to save 3,400GWh/year (valued at $27 million at 8 cents per kWh) by 2010 given a 10% market penetration.
§ The proposed technology could reduce load loss by nearly a factor of two by the direct replacement of small to medium power range (10-100MVA) conventional transformers with superconducing transformers operating at 25K.