Feasibility Evaluation of Cu-Nb Microcomposite Joints Formed by Magnetic Field Pressing for Pulsed Power Applications

• Main Authors: Gediminas Mikalauskas, Raimonda Lukauskaitė, Jelena Škamat, Olegas Černašėjus, Vitalij Novickij, Nikolaj Višniakov
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Faculty of Mechanical Engineering in Slavonski Brod, Faculty of Electrical Engineering in Osijek, Faculty of Civil Engineering in Osijek 2018-01-01
• Series: Tehnički Vjesnik
• Subjects: Cu-Nb wire; composite materials; electrical cables; electrical contact connection
• Online Access: https://hrcak.srce.hr/file/302800

In this work we have evaluated the feasibility of the magnetic field pressing technology for formation of Cu-Nb joints for further pulsed power applications. The electrical and mechanical properties of joints have been investigated. The structure of Cu-Nb conductors joints was investigated using optical and scanning electron microscopy. The mechanical characteristics have been evaluated using tensile tests. It has been determined that the maximum tensile strength of 350 MPa could be achieved, which is 30,4 % of a Cu-Nb wire strength. The applied pressing technology allowed minimizing the defects in the microcomposite structure due to solid-state joining process, however the resultant decrease of conductivity by 10 % influenced an increase of the Joule heating. After a 2 min 200 A current flow the difference of 54,4 °C between the conductor and the joint area was observed. It was concluded that the Cu-Nb joints formed by magnetic field pressing are applicable for pulsed magnet setups where non-destructive joints are required.