New wires to carry more electricity than copperSeptember 7th,
2011 - 2:54 pm ICT by IANS Washington, Sep 7 (IANS) A new
superconducting wire can carry 40 times more electricity than a
copper wire of the same size, potentially revolutionizing the
power sector, says a research. High power superconductor cables
take up much less space and conduct energy more efficiently,
making them ideal for use in power grids. They will also offer a
more effective method for collecting energy from renewable
sources like solar and wind energy. Superconducting wires can be
used for energy storage and can enable devices which enhance
grid stability. Boaz Almog and Mishael Azoulay working under Guy
Deutscher, physicist at the Tel Aviv University have developed
the superconductng cables, using fibres made of single sapphire
crystals. One of the things that make copper wires inefficient
is overheating, Almog explains, according to a Tel Aviv
statement. Some of the energy that flows through the metal is
cast off and wasted, causing t