Uncertainty considerations in AC loss measurement of multifilamentary superconducting wires performed via a pickup coil method

Abstract The uncertainty of AC loss measurements for multifilamentary superconducting wires by a pickup coil method is evaluated on the basis of the law of propagation of uncertainty. In this evaluation, the effects of measurement conditions, signal processing, and the division of the AC loss into its components (hysteresis loss and coupling loss) are taken into account as elements of uncertainty. The effect of the measurement conditions is evaluated using theoretical expressions of the two main components. Additionally, the effect of signal processing is considered in accordance with the actual processes of the AC loss measurement using experimental outputs. The main factors that contribute to the uncertainty in the propagation process are discussed. The estimated resultant uncertainties are compared to experimental ones for round robin tests of AC loss measurement of Nb–Ti multifilamentary wires exposed to an alternating transverse magnetic field.