Problems with conductors and dielectrics for cryogenic cables

Abstract The most important problems which need to be solved if superconducting power cables are to be used on a large scale are connected with the superconducting cable materials and the dielectrics used for insulation. Research work on superconducting materials for ac and dc cables is briefly reviewed together with stabilization problems for these materials. Three types of insulation are considered - vacuum, subcooled or supercritical helium, and foil wound insulation. The merits and problems encountered in each case are discussed.