Numerical Model for Quench Propagation in Composite HTS Tapes

The normal zone propagation velocity (NZPV) is a widely studied feature in superconducting wires and tapes for its significant technological implication. Recent investigations on 2G-HTS tapes were carried out analytically and numerically with methods able to predict the asymptotic values of the NZPV. A numerical model, based on the finite-element analysis, is presented. Our model has been found able to reproduce the asymptotical results already predicted by other models. This approach has been extensively used for the study of the quench propagation along the tape since its generation. As expected, at the beginning of the quench process, the NZPV is strongly influenced by the initial hot stimulus. As a consequence, the tape length needed by the NZPV to reach the steady value, depending on this injected energy, may be longer than expected. These results may help to explain, together with other affecting parameters, the different values of experimental NZPV obtained at the same conditions, with different experimental apparatus and method. Other advantages and extension of this method are also discussed.