Design of a single-phase 6.5 MVA/25 kV superconducting traction transformer for the Chinese Fuxing high-speed train

Abstract Traction transformers are critical components of Chinese high-speed-trains. We are currently building a single–phase 6.5 MVA superconducting traction transformer which can achieve targets of less than 3 tons of transformer system weight, better than 99% efficiency, and 43% short-circuit impedance. The proposed transformer consists of four single-phase 25 kV/1.9 kV HTS windings, operating at 65 K, each of which drives a motor. The design incorporates Roebel cable in the LV windings to cope with large current and minimize AC loss. We present 2D FEM AC loss modelling results that identify the critical parameters that contribute to AC loss. We show that the combination of winding length ≥1 m, high performance Fujikura wires, and flux diverters arranged at the end of HV and LV windings, can restrain AC loss in the HTS windings to under 2 kW. We introduce an open-loop cooling system concept with sub-cooler integrated inside the transformer cryostat that can achieve total system weight under 3 tons assuming 2.5 kW total heat load and 8 h of continuous running time. A nominal efficiency of 99.5% can be achieved for this total heat load. The entire superconducting transformer system can be readily fit in the space allocated for conventional transformers in the Chinese Fuxing trains.