The feasibility of superconducting power transformers

Abstract

The feasibility of making a 600 MVA 400 kV power transformer with superconductive windings to save I 2R losses is discussed, and the economic incentive assessed. Despite the radical change in concept, the transformer would be roughly the same size, shape, and weight as a conventional one. The tank would be vacuum tight, and the whole evacuated. This vacuum would insulate the windings electrically and thermally. Each winding would comprise two separate single layers of rectangular copper tube coated with superconductor and cooled internally with fluid helium at about 5 K. The extra cost of such a transformer is uncertain, but will probably exceed the saving in copper losses.