The characterization and selection of superconductor wire and cable for RHIC

This report describes the procedures used to select a single vendor for superconductor cable for the RHIC 80 mm dipole and quadrupole magnets, and some insertion dipoles with 110 mm aperture. Experience gained at BNL through involvement with the HERA and SSC Projects provided valuable Teaming experiences for this work. A performance specification was prepared and three qualified vendors were selected to complete a preproduction lot of 63,000 ft. of cable (approximately five multifilament billets). Samples were sent to BNL from every wire spool and from every continuous cable length. Mechanical, electrical and magnetization measurements were made to characterize the material. A data base was used to collect information, to compare BNL and vendor measurements and to study uniformity. Results are presented without specific identification of the vendors involved