Feasibility of inline cooling in long distance HTS power line

Based on the most recent HTS cable projects worldwide, we discuss the possibility of making long liquid nitrogen cooled HTS lines. We use the concept of inline cryocoolers to achieve cables of infinite length. We model the cable temperature and pressure distribution and determine the cooling power needed per cryocooler as a function of the desired cable unit length. Repetition of this cable unit, including cryocooler and pumps, makes it possible to achieve cables of infinite length and opens the route to complex HTS power grids.

Research highlights
► We discuss on the possibility of making long liquid nitrogen cooled HTS lines.
► We model temperature and pressure distribution in the cable.
► We study the required cooling power as a function of the cable unit length.
► Proposed inline HTS cable cooling system require a 1 kW cooler every 400 m.
► Reduction in cable losses reduce the required cooling to 1 kW cooler every 1000 m.