SBIR/STTR Award attributes
U.S. Navy ships use systems employing superconductors for power distribution and other applications, and cryocoolers maintain the cryogenic temperatures required for superconductor operation. When cryocooler electrical power is lost or interrupted for more than a brief period (such as during power source transfer, maintenance, or unplanned events), these systems begin warming to temperatures at which the superconductors no longer function. When power is restored, the systems must be re-cooled to restore functionality, resulting in additional time without system capability. Creare proposes to develop a heat-absorbing technology for sustaining cryogenic temperatures for superconductors for up to several hours in the absence of cryocooler power. Our technology offers high efficiency and minimum weight and volume. The proposed Phase I project will develop approaches for integrating the heat-absorbing material into cryogenic systems and develop a conceptual design for a cryogenic heat absorption system for a Navy application. Analysis will show the system feasibility and performance outlook. The Phase I Option project will advance the system design in preparation for prototype development, testing, and delivery in Phase II.
