Overview
EN ISO 17279-2:2018 (ISO 17279-2:2018) defines qualification requirements for personnel who perform micro-joining and oxygenation annealing of 2nd generation high temperature superconductors (2G HTS), and for those who test the resulting 2G HTS test joints. The standard is part of a series addressing direct autogenous joining of the thin ReBCO superconducting layer (typical thickness 1–2 µm) and recovery of superconducting properties by controlled oxygenation annealing.
Key topics and requirements
- Scope and purpose: Qualification of welding and testing personnel for micro-joining of 2G HTS and subsequent joint testing.
- Essential variables & range of qualification: Defines which process parameters and material variables affect qualification scope (see standard for precise lists).
- Qualification methods:
- Based on standard test joint specimen - assessment using prescribed specimens.
- By testing produced test joints - evaluation of real joints made by the candidate.
- Examination & reporting: Rules for qualification examinations, required records and examination reports.
- Validity, re‑qualification and extension:
- Initial qualification periods and confirmation intervals.
- Procedures to re‑qualify or prolong the validity of qualifications.
- Third‑party checks: Provisions for independent verification of personnel competence and test results.
- Annexes:
- Annex A - functional knowledge of micro‑joining and annealing apparatus.
- Annex B - micro‑joining and oxygenation annealing technology knowledge.
- Annex C–E - data reporting templates, example test results and a qualification checklist.
Practical applications and who uses it
EN ISO 17279-2:2018 is aimed at organizations and professionals involved in the manufacture, assembly and quality assurance of 2G HTS components and systems, including:
- Welding and micro‑joining technicians and supervisors
- Test and laboratory personnel performing joint evaluation
- Quality managers and certification bodies
- R&D teams and production engineers in superconducting tape, cable and device manufacturing
Implementing this standard helps ensure consistent, low‑resistance superconducting joints, repeatable testing practices and traceable personnel competence - essential for reliable HTS assemblies used in power, magnetics and research applications.
Related standards
- ISO 17279-1 - General requirements for micro‑joining procedures for 2G HTS
- ISO 15607:2003 - Specification and qualification of welding procedures for metallic materials (referenced normative document)
Keywords: EN ISO 17279-2:2018, ISO 17279-2, micro joining, 2nd generation high temperature superconductors, oxygenation annealing, personnel qualification, test joints, welding personnel, testing personnel.