High Temperature Superconductors (HTS) for Energy Applications

9

Superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) systems

P. Tixador,     Grenoble INP/Institut Néel – G2Elab, France

Abstract:

Superconducting magnetic energy storage (SMES) is one of the few direct electric energy storage systems. Its specific energy is limited by mechanical considerations to a moderate value (10 kJ/kg), but its specific power density can be high with excellent energy transfer efficiency. This makes SMES promising for high-power and short-time applications. So far, SMES uses NbTi due to its low cost. Excepting the cost, YBCO appears very attractive (current capacity, mechanical performances and ‘high’ operating temperatures). Since the first studies in the 1970s, successful demonstrations have been carried out but their ...