High Current HTS Cable Development for Combined Energy Transmission with LH2

Superconducting cables are a keystone for efficient electric power transmission. The combination with liquid hydrogen (LH2) as a coolant and energy carrier forms a synergetic hybrid pipeline that allows large-scale power transfer. However, the operation of an HTS cable in LH2 environment has some challenges. This work presents the technical design of a two-phase DC superconducting power cable combined with LH2. Due to their high current carrying capacity at a temperature level of around 20 – 30 K, commercially available HTS REBCO tapes are used. The cable architecture considers the arrangement of tapes around a stabilizing copper core to minimize magnetic stray fields and Lorentz forces, based on electromagnetic simulations. Investigations have been conducted to realize a reliable thermal contact between the superconductor and support structures. The design implements high voltage insulation and generally focusses on sufficient stability, flexibility, and feasible production processes. Finally, technical solutions to compensate thermomechanical and electromechanical stresses are shown and implemented in a cable prototype, which enables further experimental investigations.