Energy loss mechanisms of superconductors used in alternating-current power transmission systems.
The intrinsic hysteretic loss of superconductors carrying alternating current has been derived from simple models and verified experimentally. In practical cable designs the losses are increased by surface roughness, conductor configuration, and added metallic components. When possible applications by electric utility companies are being considered, such losses are only one of many factors that must be adjusted in an optimization that produces the lowest cost(including both capital and operating expenses) during the lifetime of the system.