Current-limiting reactor based on high-T/sub c/ superconductors

Abstract

It is pointed out that an inductance coil with the ferromagnetic core surrounded by a high-T/sub c/ ceramic shield is a highly nonlinear element in AC circuits and can find application as a current-limiting reactor. Such a reactor can function both by self-switching and external control. In the latter case, the transport current pulse can be an effective control. Experimental data are presented on shields of yttrium-barium ceramics with critical current densities of about 10/sup 6/ A/m/sup 2/ in a zero field at 77 K. An increase in J/sub c/ to 10/sup 7/ A/m/sup 2/ in a field up to 1 T is found, supporting the feasibility of current-limiting reactors based on high-T/sub c/ superconductors.