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Celebrating Two Decades of Innovation in Nuclear Fusion

Shanghai Electric, a pioneer in advanced equipment manufacturing in China, has achieved remarkable milestones in controlled nuclear fusion, showcasing its commitment to sustainable energy development. Recently, the company announced significant advancements, including the delivery of the world's largest toroidal field (TF) coil case. This milestone marks a critical step towards achieving fusion energy, which many scientists believe could provide a near-limitless source of clean energy for the future.

The TF coil case, a vital component in the experimental nuclear fusion reactor, was jointly developed by Shanghai Electric and the Institute of Plasma Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (ASIPP). It was delivered to the Comprehensive Research Facility for Fusion Technology (CRAFT) in Hefei, China, reinforcing China’s position as a leader in the global supply chain for fusion research.

In addition to the TF coil case, Shanghai Electric successfully delivered a cryostat to Marseille, France, intended for testing magnets within the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). This transportation included overcoming considerable logistical challenges as it involved navigating the last 70 kilometers of its journey to the ITER site in Cadarache, emphasizing the company's engineering capabilities and international cooperation.

As one of the seven primary members of the ITER project, China collaborates closely with various international partners, including the European Union, India, Japan, South Korea, Russia, and the United States, to advance nuclear fusion technology from laboratory settings toward commercialization. The advancements made by the Shanghai Electric Nuclear Power Group affirm China’s instrumental role in global nuclear fusion research and its commitment to addressing climate change through clean energy solutions.

Wu Lei, Chairman of Shanghai Electric Group, emphasized that the enterprise is dedicated to nuclear fusion energy development through technological innovations and international collaboration. The recent achievements in collaboration with international partners further bolster the organization’s reputation and commitment to delivering robust support for significant global scientific initiatives.

Among these accomplishments, the TF coil is made entirely from austenitic stainless steel, measuring 21 meters in height and 12 meters in width, and weighing approximately 400 tons—features that enhance its capabilities compared to equivalent components used in ITER. Shanghai Electric demonstrated exceptional capability by adhering to stringent site constraints and completing the manufacturing process in just 11 months. This included achieving precise shaping and welding of large components while maintaining stringent deformation standards, thus contributing to international benchmarks in fusion technology.

With over 20 years of experience, Shanghai Electric has successfully executed numerous fusion projects, including EAST, CRAFT, and BEST, illustrating the company’s pivotal role in addressing future energy needs amid growing global energy demands. Recent initiatives have been focused on resolving key technical challenges in fusion material research and advanced laser welding techniques, contributing to improved performance and reliability under extreme conditions.

As the initiatives in controlled nuclear fusion evolve, Shanghai Electric's contributions signal a comprehensive approach to energy security and environmental sustainability. The fusion advancements made over the past two decades have ignited strong global interest and underscored the potential of nuclear fusion in combating climate change and fulfilling the escalating demand for sustainable energy solutions worldwide.

For more information, you can visit Shanghai Electric's official website.