Structural Reinforcement Strategy for Racetrack REBCO HTS Magnet of MW-Class Wind Turbine

Racetrack high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets are favored for enhancing the magnetic field of stator magnets in MW-class wind turbine generators (WTG). However, the coexistence of elevated magnetic fields and increased excitation currents poses a significant challenge, generating exceptionally high electro-magnetic stress within the HTS magnet, reaching Giga-Pascal levels. This poses a potential risk of structural damage or quenching during operation. This study designed a racetrack HTS magnet with a surface magnetic field exceeding 5 T, tailored for MW-class WTG. Using an approach integrating electromagnetics and mechanics, we reproduced electromagnetic stress behaviors of the magnet. Our investigation confirmed significant stress concentration and deformation in the local winding during operation. Based on these results, we devised a reinforcing structure employing carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) and substantiated its efficacy in mitigating electromagnetic stress and deformation in the racetrack HTS magnet.