The Effect of Plastic Deformation on the Geometric Parameters of Nb-Ti-Based Superconducting Cable

Abstract

The current carrying capacity of a superconductor depends on its microstructure, that is, the shape, size and volume content of particles released during the decomposition of a solid solution. At the technological stage, it is necessary to ensure continuity of the process and a given density of micro defects. Therefore, the aim of this work was to assess and present the results of studies of the effect of plastic deformation (tension) on the structure of a multicore superconductor based on Nb-Ti alloy. Mechanical tests were carried out for uniaxial tension to failure on a Walter + Bai AG LFM-125 testing machine (maximum force up to 125 kN). The internal structure of the sample at the fracture site after the sample preparation was studied using a Neophot-21 optical microscope. The effect of deformation on the geometric parameters of NbTi fibers was studied. Sample preparation included thin sections, polishing and etching.