Machining high quality superconducting rings from top seeded melt grown samples

Abstract

Abstract A drilling procedure for obtaining superconducting rings from top seeded melt grown samples is reported. The method described is based on the use of a column drilling machine with a copper–diamond drill bit. Modifications have been made in order to avoid structural damage to the superconductor during drilling. The success of the technique was assessed by measuring the critical current of samples before and after machining, with similar values obtained in both cases.