Patent ID: 7522393
Filing Date: 2009-04-21
Classification: H01L

Abstract:
1. A conductor element for a fault current limiter, comprising: a superconducting element which quenches to a normal conducting state when at least one of the current density and temperature is above a fault value; and a thermal mass in thermal contact with the superconducting element to absorb heat from the superconducting element to a sufficient thermal capacity to inhibit a guenching within a derived characteristic thermal distance of the thermal mass from the superconducting element; wherein the thermal mass is provided by at least two bodies in solid form associated with electrical insulation to inhibit continuous electrical conductivity at least longitudinally from one body to another body along the superconducting element through the bodies of the thermal mass; and wherein the conductor element further comprises a connection arrangement for providing, in use, thermal connection between the thermal mass and a cooling system on one side of the thermal mass away from the super conducting element to define a direct thermal path across the thermal mass.