American Superconductor announced that it has supplied critical components for a high-temperature superconductor degaussing coil system that will soon undergo US Navy sea trials. Initial electrical testing of the components has already been successfully completed onboard the USS Higgins, an 8,000-ton Arliegh Burke-class destroyer.
Degaussing systems are used to cloak naval ships’ magnetic signature, making it more difficult for them to be detected by magnetic sensors. An HTS degaussing system operates at the same level of functionality as copper-based degaussing systems, yet is more efficient and less invasive to the ship.
“With the ability to reduce the size, weight and cost of ship motors, generators, power cables and degaussing systems, HTS wire holds tremendous promise in the maritime market,” said Dan McGahn, senior vice president and general manager of American Superconductor.
