Numerical Study on the Contact Characteristics of Multi-stage Superconducting Cables Under Tensile Strain

Abstract

Superconducting cables with complex multi-stage helical structures are essential components of the superconducting magnet systems of the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor. These cables often experience contact issues that can adversely affect their conductive properties. This study introduces a three-dimensional numerical model designed to accurately analyze the contact characteristics of multi-stage superconducting cables subjected to tensile strain. The model begins by defining the multi-stage geometry of the cable, and then evaluates the distribution of contact pressures and contact regions across individual strands. The numerical model was validated through comparison with existing reference data. An average contact force is introduced to quantify the magnitude of contact force on each strand. The study analyzes the effects of variations in the helical pitches of each stage of the cable on contact characteristics, as well as the influence of changes in the helical pitches of lower-stage cables on the contact characteristics of higher-stage cables. This research enhances the understanding of contact characteristics in multi-stage superconducting cables and provides valuable insights for optimizing the design of advanced hierarchical helical structures.