China has reached a historic milestone in fusion technology with the successful completion and operation of the world’s first fully high-temperature superconducting tokamak device, named the HH70. Unveiled in Shanghai on Tuesday, the HH70 represents a significant leap forward in the global pursuit of clean and sustainable energy.
Tokamak devices, often referred to as “artificial suns,” are instruments that mimic the nuclear fusion processes of the sun to generate energy. Traditionally, these devices are large and expensive, posing challenges for commercial viability. However, the HH70, designed and built by Energy Singularity, a forward-thinking commercial company, is breaking new ground.
“The HH70 is smaller and more cost-effective to produce,” said Guo Houyang, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Energy Singularity. “This innovation paves the way for commercially viable fusion reactors in the future.”
What sets the HH70 apart is its magnetic system constructed entirely from high-temperature superconducting materials—a global first in fusion technology. Achieving this feat in just two years, Energy Singularity has set a world record for the fastest development and construction of a superconducting tokamak device.
The successful operation of the HH70 is more than just a technological achievement; it signifies a major step forward in verifying the engineering feasibility of high-temperature superconducting tokamaks. This development brings the world closer to harnessing fusion energy, a source of power that is clean, safe, and virtually limitless.
China’s progress with the HH70 not only showcases the nation’s innovation capabilities but also contributes significantly to the global efforts in developing sustainable energy solutions. As countries worldwide grapple with the challenges of climate change and energy security, advancements like the HH70 offer a beacon of hope.
Reference(s):
China makes fusion tech breakthrough with world's first HH70 Tokamak
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