This paper deals with the influence of thermal conductivity and specific heat on the stability of a superconducting tube. The study is made to foresee the effect of a pulse of energy, which causes the quench of the superconductor. Depending on he applications, the transition of the superconductor is provoked, like for the superconducting current limiter, or accidental. In any case, it is necessary to protect the superconductor from an excessive rise of temperature to avoid its destruction. Using dimensionless analysis, the study is applied to a cylindrical tube. (c) 2005 Published by Elsevier Ltd.