Design and construction of the Flux Core coils of the Space Plasma Environment Research Facility (SPERF)

Abstract

A set of Flux Core coils are used to generate the model interplanetary magnetic field in the SPERF (Space Plasma Environment Research Facility) device to simulate the magnetic reconnection on the magnetopause of the earth. Several technical challenges are imposed on designing the coils in terms of electricity, vacuum, support, and motion, etc. The design and the construction of the Flux Core coils are presented in the paper to overcome the difficulties. Based on the structure parameters and the magnetic forces, the Flux Core coils composed of a G10 (fiberglass laminate composite material) form and several other components are designed. A complex construction process is used to acquire high vacuum degree and reliable insulation as well as fine surface quality. A support structure with a dedicated buffer mechanism is designed, with the ability to resist the magnetic forces according to a mass-spring-damper model and the mechanical analysis. The Flux Core coils are being built based on the design and the tests will be done later.