HTS Transformer–Rectifier Flux Pump Optimization

Flux pumps are a type of wireless superconducting power supply which can provide advantages over traditional superconducting systems. This work reports on time-domain circuit simulations in LTspice of a transformer-rectifier flux pump. The simulations are compared with an experimental system employing ac-field switches and show good agreement. Further simulations show that a key component for the advance of transformer-rectifier flux pumps is the development of improved superconducting switches. Work to date by the authors towards developing high temperature superconducting (HTS) switches with high off-state resistance, fast recovery time and high critical current is reported on. Future work is detailed, and it is concluded that if improved HTS switches are developed, flux pumps will be a competitive technology and may start to replace conventional superconducting power supplies.