High-Temperature Superconducting Cable Optimization Design Software Based on 2-D Finite Element Model

With the increasing electricity power demand in major cities, the existing conventional power cables is difficult to meet the requirements of high-density and large-capacity power transmission. Compared with conventional power cables, high-temperature superconducting cables can significantly increase transmission capacity, reduce power losses, and save land occupation, which have great potential in future urban high-density power transmission applications. However, the process of designing a complete set of HTS cable is very complex, and many factors need to be considered comprehensively, such as current distribution, AC loss calculation, thermal stability analysis. In this case, a HTS cable design software platform is under development to simplify design process and improve the work efficiency of designers. Based on the software, design schemes of three-phase 10kV/1.5kA HTS cable with two different structures are given. A 2-D AC loss finite element model of HTS cable is established and verified. The simulation results show that at low voltage level, the HTS cable with three-phase coaxial structure has good performance, and can save more land, which is more suitable for the expansion of urban power grid in the future.