Development of superconducting and cryogenic technology in the Institute for Technical Physics (ITP) of the Research Center Karlsruhe

Since the early 1970s the Institute for Technical Physics of the Research Center Karlsruhe has been involved in the development of superconductivity for research and industrial applications. A broad program with a focus on the superconducting magnet technology was established to include large magnets for nuclear fusion, high-field magnets for nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers, ore separation and energy storage magnets. Research and development work was performed in collaborative projects with other national as well as international institutions and industry. The success of these projects has been supported by a broad foundation of engineering science in superconductor development, electrical and cryogenic engineering. Several well known test facilities like TOSKA, STAR, HOMER, NITA along with well equipped laboratories for conductor development, materials at cryogenic temperatures, cryogenic high-voltage engineering have made substantial contributions to in-house, national and international projects. A strong cryogenic infrastructure with two refrigerators and sophisticated cooling circuits from about 4.5 K down to 1.8 K assure the reliable operation of these large facilities. Last but not least, cryogenic research, including vacuum pumps for International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor, improvements in thermal insulation, cryogenic instrumentation and small on board refrigerators has supported progress in this field. High-temperature superconductivity projects for low AC loss conductors, a 70 kA current lead and a fault current limiter are currently in progress. (C) 2003 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.