Superconductors: An Emerging Power Technology
Abstract
Superconductors offer effectively zero resistance to the flow of electricity and thus have the potential to significantly reduce Joule energy losses in the distribution and utilization of electric power, as well as the size and weight of power generators and motors. Although superconductivity was first discovered in 1911, temperatures near absolute zero were required for their operation, and so large-scale application of superconductivity was limited until the discovery in 1986 of a new class of oxide superconductors that operate at much higher (although still cryogenic) temperatures. Recently, remarkable progress has been made in the fabrication of practical conductors using the new oxide superconductors. Some of the properties of superconductors (both low- and high-temperature types) and the progress that has been made in overcoming impediments to their commercialization are reviewed. Also discussed are ongoing demonstration projects for transmission lines, electric motors, generators, synchronous condensers, and transformers that are currently being constructed by teams of industry and government researchers to implement and test this new technology in commercial settings.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADP019529
Entities
People
- Jack W. Ekin
Organizations
- National Institute of Standards and Technology