HTS current lead using a composite heat pipe

The development of high-temperature superconducting (HTS) current leads that will supply power to an HTS coil in a high gradient magnetic separation system is discussed. The current leads consist of a nitrogen heat pipe made of conducting and insulating materials for simultaneous thermal diffusion and electrical isolation between the lead and a thermal heat intercept. It also features yttrium-barium-copper-oxide thick films to minimize heat dissipation at the lower stage.