Transverse magnetic load containment structure for use in MHD magnets

Abstract

This invention relates to means for the structural support of the windings of saddle and racetrack-shaped magnets against the local magnetic loads acting on the individual conductors or against the total transverse magnetic loads acting on the entire windings. The invention is particularly useful in magnets used in magnetohydrodynamic [MHD] applications. The invention utilizes the inherent stiffness of the windings themselves and any internal or substructure present within the windings. The invention comprises a pair of first and second winding assemblies, an assembly of each pair being positioned on each side of the MHD channel. Each winding assembly consists either of an integral winding pancake or one or more substructural plates, each of which has a channel or channels running its length and into which an individual conductor or several conductors of the magnet are placed. Winding pancakes or plates are assembled with a means to provide shear transmission from pancake to pancake or from plate to plate. This may be done by the use of keys and keyways, bolts, friction or the bond strength of adhesives or epoxies. The two sets of winding assemblies are joined across the MHD channel by a tension member (plates or bolts) and a means to transmit shear from the winding assembly to the tension member. There may also be an additional tension member within each winding assembly preventing the two winding halves and their components on each side of the MHD channel from separating under the magnetic loads.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.