Modeling the current distribution in HTS tapes with transport current and applied magnetic field

A numerical model is developed for the current distribution in a high temperature superconducting (HTS) tape subjected to a combination of a transport current and an applied magnetic field, This analysis is based on a two-dimensional formulation of Maxwell's equations in terms of an integral equation for the current density J. The finite thickness of the conductor and an arbitrary voltage-current relation (e.g. n-power relation, magnetic field dependency) for the conductor are included in the model. Another important feature is that the model also covers an applied magnetic field in arbitrary directions and a rotating field perpendicular to the conductor, which is of great interest for analyzing the AC loss of HTS (transformer) coils or three-phase electric power cables. A comparison is made with transport current loss measurements on an HTS tape with an AC applied field.