Applications of Superconductivity

Superconductivity is a disruptive technology that will have a dramatic impact on the way the world uses electricity. Because of their greater power density and increased efficiency, superconductors will have a dramatic impact on many electric power applications such as:

• HTS Cables to alleviate grid congestion by increasing the power bandwidth of existing grid networks.
• Fault Current Limiters
• HTS Motors and Generators for industrial, utility and maritime propulsion systems.
• Specialty magnets for use in a variety of industries including medical, transportation, scientific research, and industrial processing.

The underlying enabling technology is AMSC's HTS wire which is capable of carrying 150 times more power than conventional copper conductors of the same size. AMSC is the leading provider of first and second generation HTS wire. The company's first generation HTS wire is available in commercial quantities today and is manufactured in our new state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Devens, Massachusetts.

Our second generation HTS wire, which is based on a coated conductor composite architecture, is expected to be available in commercial quantities in 2-3 years, but at a price point that is 2-5 times lower than first generation HTS wire.