Measurements of modulus of elasticity and thermal contraction of epoxy impregnated niobium-tin and niobium-titanium composites

In the high field magnet program at Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, accelerator magnet prototypes are designed with epoxy impregnated niobium-tin and niobium-titanium superconductor. Accurate mechanical property values are essential for magnet mechanical design and prediction of conductor performance. Two key mean property values are measured on coil samples: modulus of elasticity (Young's modulus) and mean thermal contraction. Measurements are made in compression and are conducted in three orthogonal directions. Modulus of elasticity measurements are conducted at room temperature and the mean thermal contraction is measured from room temperature to liquid nitrogen temperature. Room temperature values are compared with values estimated using the individual coil component.