Design of an experimental facility for the measurement of the thermal-hydraulic performance of corrugate ducts for LH2

A Superconducting Energy Pipeline (SCEP) represents an innovative method for transporting electricity. This concept is based on the coupling of a High-Temperature Superconductor (HTS), such as Magnesium Diboride (MgB2), with a coolant the thermodynamic properties of which are suitable for the application in the temperature range 20 K – 30 K. In this context, liquid hydrogen is used as the coolant due to its operating temperature and pressure, which are favourable for the use of MgB2, considering its critical temperature below 39 K. This configuration enables the simultaneous transport of two commodities: hydrogen and electrical energy. An additional benefit is that the coolant serves as a energy storage, potentially further contributing to decarbonization efforts. The SCEP encompasses the superconducting cable, electrically insulated at cryogenic temperature, embedded in a cryostat realized through two vacuum-insulted corrugated pipes. To establish a robust knowledge base for this emerging technology, extensive research is required in the field of liquid hydrogen cooling. This requires the development of an experimental facility capable of assessing the thermal-hydraulic performance of this coolant, including parameters such as the friction factor and heat transfer coefficient within the corrugated pipes. The objective of this study is to design such a facility. Key elements considered in the design process include the mass flow rate, pipe length, and the diameter for the corrugation.