Potential of MgB₂ superconductors in direct drive generators for wind turbines

Topologies of superconducting direct drive wind turbine generators are based on a combination of superconducting wires wound into field coils, copper armature windings, steel laminates to shape the magnetic flux density and finally structural materials as support. But what is the most optimal topology for superconducting wind turbine generators? This question is investigated by assuming some unit cost of the different materials and then minimizing the cost of the active materials of a 10 MW and 9.65 rpm direct drive wind turbine generator intended to be mounted in front of the INNWIND.EU King-Pin concept nacelle.

A series of topologies are investigate by adding more iron components to the generator, such as rotor back iron, field winding pole, magnetic teeth and armature back iron. This method is used to investigate 6 topologies and to determine the optimal cost of the different topologies by using the current cost of 4 €/m for the MgB2 wire from Columbus Superconductors and also a possible future cost of 1 €/m if a superconducting offshore wind power capacity of 10 GW has been introduced by 2030 as suggested in a roadmap.

The obtained topologies are compared to what is expected from a permanent magnet direct drive generators and the further development directions are discussed. Finally an experimental INNWIND.EU demonstration showing that the current commercial MgB2 wires can be wound into functional field coils for wind turbine generators is discussed.