Review
Acoustic methods for quench detection in HTS cables
D. A. Aleksandrov
NRNU MEPhI, Kashirskoye Highway, 31, 115409, Moscow, Russia
e-mail: dimax.2001@mail.ru
I. V. Martirosian
NRNU MEPhI, Kashirskoye Highway, 31, 115409, Moscow, Russia
S. V. Pokrovskii
NRNU MEPhI, Kashirskoye Highway, 31, 115409, Moscow, Russia
Absrtract
This review summarizes modern approaches to quench detection in high-temperature superconducting (HTS) cables and magnets. The peculiarities of quench development in HTS conductors are discussed, including the low normal zone propagation velocity, the complex multilayer cable architecture, and current redistribution among individual tapes. These factors significantly complicate early detection of the transition from the superconducting to the normal state using conventional voltage- and temperature-based methods. Alternative quench detection approaches, including fiberoptic, magnetic, and capacitive techniques, are listed. The main focus is placed on acoustic quench detection methods, which have recently demonstrated significant potential due to their non-invasive nature, immunity to electromagnetic interference, and ability to detect early stages of localized heating associated with thermomechanical processes in the conductor. The principles of passive acoustic emission and active acoustic thermometry, including techniques based on multiply scattered elastic waves (coda waves), are analyzed in detail, along with experimental results obtained on individual HTS tapes and cables. Achieved temperature sensitivity and spatial resolution are discussed, as well as the prospects for implementing acoustic methods in operational HTS magnet systems.
Keywords: HTS; quench; CORC®; ROEBEL; NZP; VIPER.
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