High Temperature Superconducting Magnetic System for High Gradient Magnetic Separator

Abstract

High gradient magnetic separation is an effective method for ores enrichment and industrial wastes recycling (including radioactive wastes). The possibilities of separators based on resistive and permanent magnets are limited due to relatively low value of magnetic induction and rather high energy consumption. LTS magnetic systems require liquid helium and complicated cryogenics which can be costly and not always optimal for use at industrial facilities. High-temperature superconductors operated in liquid, sub-cooled and solid nitrogen and equipped with cryocoolers are promising materials that can help expanding industrial application of superconducting devices. In this study, we discuss the design of an HTS rotary separator prototype with the horizontally oriented rotor axis together with the magnetic fields and forces calculations that define prototype working parameters; overall design of HTS-2G coils and preliminary test results of the said coils at different operating temperatures.