Superconducting magnet abnormality detection and protection apparatus

Abstract

A superconducting magnet abnormality detection and protection apparatus is for early and surely detecting abnormality in superconducting coils mounted on a vehicle and protecting the superconducting coils. Magnetic flux detecting devices are mounted inside an outer vessel, which is a vacuum container of a superconducting magnet, so as to be opposite to the superconducting coil. Voltages induced in the magnetic flux detecting devices are detected. Voltage signals are led to a decision device. By monitoring the change of the voltage signals with time in a comparing judgment device, it is determined whether there is an abnormality. If there is an abnormality, an alarm indicator informs of an abnormal state, and a protection device takes protection measures such as interruption of the current of the superconducting magnet. Owing to such configuration, heat does not penetrate from the outside into the superconducting coil via instrumentation lead wires of the magnetic flux detecting devices. Magnitudes of vibration and displacement of the superconducting coil can be detected without contacting the superconducting coil. By always monitoring these signals, it becomes possible to early detect an abnormality in the superconducting coil and protect it.