Thermo-Magnetic Continuous Processing of Bi-2212 Cable for HEP

73086S03-I One objective of the High Energy Physics (HEP) magnet development program is the design and development of dipole magnets with fields greater than 15T. Promising candidates for high field applications in the 15T regime are the so-called High Temperature Superconductors. In particular, recent advances in the fabrication and performance of Bi-2212 wire and cable make this material an attractive alternative to A-15 materials such as Nb3Sn and Nb3Al. However, in order for this material to be useful, cost performance must be increased by a factor of two, and a practical manufacturing process must be developed for long-length fabrication. This project will demonstrate the feasibility of a practical, continuous manufacturing process for Bi-2212 wire and cable with improved Jc properties. Phase I will fabricate multifilament wires by the powder-in-tube approach, optimize the zero field melt processing of Bi-2212 wires, and melt process short samples in background magnetic fields up to 10T. Microstructure evaluation of the grain alignment or texture will be studied with and without a magnetic field. Transport measurements will be performed in magnetic fields from 0 to 14T at 4.2K. Ultimately, the base line process parameters for continuous melt processing of wire through an oven will be established. The melt processing of Bi-2212 wires and cables in the presence of a magnetic field will be integrated into a continuous process in the Phase II. Commercial Applications and Other Benefits as described by awardee: Multifilament high performance Bi-2212 wire and cable should provide an alternative to A-15 conductors in high energy physics particle accelerators and fusion magnets. In addition, commercial Bi-2212 wire should find application in NMR magnets that are currently fabricated in Nb3Sn, as well as in cryocooled magnet devices.