VEIR (www.VEIR.com) is developing the next generation of superconductors. Its high-capacity, low-environmental impact lines will revolutionize overhead electric transmission. VEIR conductors have the ability to move five times the capacity of standard aluminum core steel reinforced (ACSR) conductors within the same right of way (ROW). For example, a 115kV transmission line with ACSR conductors can carry up ~ 200 megawatts of capacity. A VEIR conductor at the same 115kV voltage will be able to carry 1,000 megawatts without increasing the ROW width or increasing tower height.
VEIR breaks the mold on how superconductors can be deployed. Earlier iterations used closed loop cooling systems to maintain the low temperature of liquid nitrogen (77 Kelvin or -320 degrees Fahrenheit) that enables the minimal (near zero) resistance of the superconductors. Pumps, mechanical refrigeration systems, and cryostats with heavy dielectric insulation were needed in superconductor pilot and demonstration projects. Consequently, these earlier systems were too heavy to be deployed overhead and were limited to a mile or two in length in distance before new refrigeration units were required. The projects were all technically successful and compatible with the grid, but they were not commercially viable.
VEIR turns superconducting technology on its head. Instead of using mechanical cooling to cool the nitrogen, VEIR uses an open loop evaporative cooling technique, where a portion of the liquid nitrogen is evaporated. The change in state from liquid to gas allows the liquid nitrogen to maintain its low temperature through the latent heat of vaporization without the need for mechanical cooling. It is an elegant solution that uses less nitrogen and requires smaller, lighter cryostats. As a result, VEIR lines can be erected overhead and run up to 60 miles before nitrogen needs to be replenished.
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