Abstract #1836

Experimental Validation of an Improved Analytical Temperature Distribution Model for Gradient Coils

Peter T. While¹, Michael Poole², Hector Sanchez Lopez², Larry K. Forbes¹, Stuart Crozier²

¹School of Mathematics and Physics, University of Tasmania, Hobart, TAS, Australia; ²ITEE, University of Queensland, Brisbane, QLD, Australia

Excessive heating is a considerable problem in gradient coil operation. An improved analytical model is presented for simulating the spatial steady-state temperature distribution for cylindrical gradient coils. The model includes resistive power deposition by current density, thermal conduction through a number of cylindrical layers and radial cooling via convection and radiation. Simulations are shown to compare well to experimentally measured temperature distributions for two coils of inherently different winding structure. Additionally, rise-times to reach thermal equilibrium are predicted. Many coil parameters and thermal material properties may be varied and the model provides a good utility prior to manufacture.