Assessment and Performance of Flexible Quench Antenna Array Diagnostics for Superconducting Magnets

TL;DR

This paper evaluates flexible quench antenna arrays for superconducting magnets, focusing on their design, testing, and optimization to improve quench detection and localization during magnet operation.

Contribution

It introduces new flexible quench antenna designs, compares their performance, and provides insights into their operational feasibility and potential improvements.

Findings

Flex-QA arrays effectively localize magnetic flux changes.

Room temperature tests complement cryogenic testing for better understanding.

Design optimizations enhance sensitivity and resolution.

Abstract

FNAL has been developing multiple versions of flexible quench antennas (flex-QA), including some specially optimized for high sensitivity and/or high resolution, to characterize quench events and transients during current ramping in superconducting magnets. A fundamental feature in our use of these is the creation of grid-like structures of sensitive elements to cover coil surfaces, with the aim of getting precise localization of magnetic flux-change events. The flex-QA are coupled with fast data-acquisition, allowing comprehensive analysis of signals at the relevant fine time scales. In addition to arrays of various flex-QA types being used during cryogenic testing of superconducting magnets, we also are utilizing a newly developed room temperature test stand to better understand QA response characteristics. The data from actual superconducting magnet tests, warm test stand measurements, and simulation data on the same QA designs allows us to draw conclusions on operational feasibility and plan better for improvements of our sensors. In this paper we present data from the multiple tests performed and analysis results. Flex-QA designs are compared, and their features, options, and optimization discussed.