Superconducting D.C. machines: A 1 MW propulsion system; studies for commercial ship propulsion

This paper describes the commissioning and some of the tests which have been carried out on a superconducting propulsion system comprising a 1 MW superconducting generator and a 1340 hp superconducting motor. The design, construction and tests on the system have taken place over a period of 5 years and the paper presents some construction and operational experience. The major problems were the behaviour of the helium compressor and a 'cold leak' on the generator cryostat. The paper also presents the results of studies which have been carried out in the use of superconducting propulsion systems in a number of types of ship. The studies were carried out by IRD in close liaison with the British Ship Research Association and a large British Shipbuilder.