Superconductivity

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Overview

Transport, heating and industry will all need to be electrified in the coming years if net zero goals are to be achieved. Cities will see the biggest increase in electricity demand, so finding ways to boost urban power supplies is a priority. Superconducting cables make it possible to transmit massive amounts of electricity in a very small space, making them the perfect candidate for congested urban grids. Our market-proven superconducting cables are transforming urban power. These compact cables allow grid operators to transfer more power at medium voltage, while reducing land take, cutting the amount of capital equipment and eliminating heating and electric and magnetic fields (EMF).

More information about Nexans superconducting cables on the Group's website

3.2 GW

Transmission capacity of a single HTS cable

± 320kV

Voltage level for HVDC cables

>30 years

Experience in cryostat design

Superconductivity is the loss of electrical resistance which takes place in some materials when they are cooled to an extremely low temperature. This phenomenon – discovered in 1911 – has major implications for the way electricity is transmitted and distributed. By incorporating superconducting wires or tapes into cables, it is possible to create near-perfect electrical conductors.

Superconducting cables for electricity transmission are manufactured using materials known as High Temperature Superconductors (HTS). The word "high" in this context is relative to absolute zero. Despite their name, High Temperature Superconductors need to be kept extremely cold (minus 200 degrees centigrade). Cooling is achieved using a cryogenic envelope - a thermally-insulated jacket that surrounds the cable. The coolant used is liquid nitrogen. This is relatively inexpensive, easy to manage and harmless to the environment.

Markets

Learn more about Nexans' superconducting cables

Visit the Group's website