Superconducting Electromagnetic Launch Machine System for Aerospace Applications

Abstract

The aerospace industry is constantly experimenting with innovative technologies to improve efficiency, effectiveness and sustainability. The use of superconducting machines emerged as a promising solution to address the growing demands of Aerospace applications. Superconducting machines offer significant advantages such as higher power density, reduced weight and improved efficiency compared to conventional electrical machines. However, efficient cooling methods are critical to maintain superconducting materials at low-temperature operating conditions. This abstract provides a comprehensive overview of superconducting machines and their associated cooling systems designed for space applications. A superconducting machine uses high-temperature superconductors to achieve near-zero electrical resistance, enabling high currents to be transmitted with low energy losses. This feature allows development of lightweight and compact electric propulsion systems contribute to improved fuel efficiency and extended mission capabilities in space vehicles. A cooling system is an important component of a superconducting machine because it ensures that the superconducting materials remain below their critical temperature. Various cooling techniques are being explored, including cryogenic cooling, liquid nitrogen cooling, and cryocoolers. These cooling systems effectively extract the heat generated during engine operation, maintaining the superconducting components in their superconducting state.