Automatic tension control for winding superconducting coils

The result of an investigation of a commercial controller for stabilizing an automatic tensioning machine used in winding operations for large superconducting coils is presented. Unsuccessful results with the commercial controller led to the design of a compensation network. Root locus techniques were utilized in arriving at a suitable compensation network to stabilize the tension machine control system. Simulated tests of the system's response to a step input and to a pulse disturbance were performed. A mathematical model of the tension machine and the associated feedback control system is presented. A stability analysis of the system along with the applicability of a commercial controller for compensation requirements is discussed. Simulated system responses to a step input and to a pulse disturbance are also discussed.