American Superconductor Corp. (Westborough, Mass.) achieved the results using a three-ply, 4.8-mm wide wire, branded as 348 superconductors. The company expects this development to pave the way for more cost-effective high-temperature superconductor motors and generators, and other coil-based electric power products that are of comparable or lower cost than copper-based solutions.

The results of multiple tests on coils of varying configurations confirmed the company's 348 superconductors have achieved performance levels in electromagnetic coils that meet or exceed the strength, durability, and electrical current capabilities of commercial first generation (1G) HTS wire.

Tests showed that 348 superconductors with today's performance levels can already be utilized to produce a 36.5-MW high-temperature semiconductor ship propulsion motor able to operate at 38 degrees Kelvin—eight degrees higher than the operating temperature of the 36.5-MW ship propulsion motor that American Semiconductor is shipping to the U.S. Navy that utilizes the company's 1G HTS wire.

348 superconductors are laminated with thin strips of a special copper alloy in a wavesoldering operation during the last step of manufacturing to achieve the required levels of mechanical, electrical, thermal and magnetic performance for each application.

American Semiconductor announced in March plans to double production capacity for its 2G high-temperature superconductor wire. The company plans to offer 348 superconductors wire for sale in 2007.