We evaluated the effects of joining processes such as contact method, shape
of joined area and pressure on the electrical and mechanical properties of
Bi-2223 superconducting tape. Specifically, the current carrying Capacity
and bonding strength of the lap-joined tape were measured as a function of
uniaxial pressure and correlated to the microstructural evolution.
It was observed that the current carrying capacity was reduced in the trans
ition region of the jointed tape and was significantly dependent on the uni
axial pressure. The jointed tape, fabricated with a pressure of 1,600 MPa,
showed the highest value of-current capacity 90% of the tape itself. It is
believed that the highest value of current capacity results from improvemen
ts in core density, contacting area and grain alignment. In addition, bondi
ng strength of the jointed tape was evaluated and correlated to the microst
ructural evolution.