An Innovative Process for the Impregnation of Magnet Coils and Other Structures

Abstract

The need to bond and encapsulate the conductor in many types of superconductive magnet is well understood. The choice of material for bonding may influence the performance of the coil and the technique used for its application. This paper considers the merits of three types of ‘bonding’ procedure and presents details of an innovative method for the vacuum impregnation of coils. The process has been developed and evaluated in an attempt to remove some of the uncertainties of the vacuum impregnation process that traditionally may be eliminated only with the use of sealed mould tools and high quality vacuum chambers. For large magnets or for mass production, this process may lead to a reduction in tooling and plant costs, together with reduced resin consumption and improved health and safety factors. The process has been developed in conjunction with a resin system that has been designed to exhibit excellent thermal shock characteristics and to minimise preparation time and post impregnation cleaning requirements.