Training in test samples of superconducting cables for accelerator magnets

In the critical current measurement of some high current NbTi cables, the samples have to be ''trained'' by repeated quenching in order to obtain a usable voltage-current curve for I/sub c/ determination. This training behavior is most pronounced when the applied field is perpendicular to the wide face of the conductor and is strongly dependent on the copper-to-superconductor ratio and the clamping pressure. Data are given for SSC prototype cables as well as for HERA production conductors. Although a quantitative understanding of the experimental data is still lacking, some speculations regarding stability are presented. 8 refs., 7 figs