Summary
This paper presents a detailed three-dimensional characterisation of wire shape and cross-sectional inhomogeneity in Nb₃Sn Rutherford superconducting cables using X-ray absorption tomography. Advanced image processing techniques were applied to correct for artefacts and segment individual wire subelements, revealing measurable periodic cross-sectional variations in both unreacted and reacted cable samples. The findings indicate that plastic deformation during cable production creates systematic geometric variations that may have implications for cable performance and quality control.
UK applicability
This work is directly applicable to UK research institutions and industry involved in superconducting magnet development, particularly those contributing to large-scale scientific infrastructure such as particle accelerators or fusion energy projects. The measurement methodology and image processing techniques developed could inform UK cable manufacturing standards and quality assurance protocols.
Key measures
Wire cross-sectional area variation (% oscillation); oscillation frequency (mm); wire aspect ratio at cable edges; three-dimensional wire shape measurements
Outcomes reported
The study quantified three-dimensional wire shape distortion and cross-sectional area variations in Nb₃Sn Rutherford cables using X-ray absorption tomography and advanced image processing. The 11-T dipole cable exhibited 2% cross-sectional oscillation with a frequency of 1.24 mm, with stronger variations observed at the thin edge of the keystoned cable.
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