Abstract
The properties of MgB 2 have the potential to make this material a viable solution for applications in which temperature, costs or weight are considered relevant constraints. In order to realize large scale applications, it is important to investigate the material, but also the winding process for MgB 2 wires and tapes. In the literature small coils have already demonstrated central magnetic flux density above 2 Tesla, overcoming common winding problems related to MgB 2 wires. In this current research, efforts are being made in order to improve the performance of solenoid coils, which are of particular interest for many applications, e.g. for space propulsion systems such as the VASIMR engine. A number of coils with MgB 2 tapes are being built. In this paper we present results of the test of a 14 cm bore solenoid wound with 400 meters of multifilament, copper stabilized tape. The magnet was tested in a cryocooled vacuum chamber and it reached 175 A at 16 K with a central B 0 of 1 Tesla.