AC current distribution and losses in multifilamentary superconductors exposed to longitudinal magnetic field

The current distribution and also AC losses, in a multifilamentary superconductor carrying a transport current, are influenced by the self and the external magnetic field. By using the Maxwell equations, a model has been developed in order to calculate the temporal evolution of current distribution in a single wire exposed or not to external magnetic field. This model is based on the actual relationship of electrical field E with current density J and takes into account the twist pitch of the wire. AC losses are calculated by adding all local losses through the cross section. This paper presents calculations of the influence of the cable twist coupled with the longitudinal magnetic field, and also gives some ideas how to decrease losses.