A transformative technology
HTS is a transformative technology for a wide range of industries. HTS magnets generate extremely powerful magnetic fields, far stronger than conventional electromagnets, and they generate these fields at higher temperatures than conventional low temperature superconductors (LTS).
Cooling HTS coils to optimum operating temperatures does not require a complex liquid helium infrastructure and is much more energy efficient.
Due to the simpler cooling requirements, HTS magnets can be deployed in applications previously unavailable to LTS magnets, with the potential for vastly improved performance.
HTS offers:
Higher current density
- Engineering current density exceeds 1000 amps/mm2, much higher than alternative magnet technologies
Higher magnetic fields
-
Extremely high magnetic fields enable Ultra‑High Field (UHF) systems not limited by current-carrying capability and far surpassing LTS operational limits
Higher temperature operation
-
No requirement for liquid helium and associated infrastructure means HTS is easier to handle with simpler cooling systems and lower operating costs than LTS
Compact, space-efficient applications
-
Magnet systems can be more compact and space efficient due to the high current density of HTS
Operation in high background fields
-
Able to operate efficiently and safely in much higher background magnetic fields (beyond 30 Tesla) than LTS
Enhanced operating margins
-
Far less likely to quench than LTS magnets, with minimum quench energy greater than 10,000x LTS equivalent
Minimal (almost none) share of rare earths
-
Rare earths are not a constraining factor due to the tiny amount used in REBCO (Rare Earth Barium Copper Oxide) magnets, 99% less than in permanent magnets
HTS Markets
HTS magnets represent a significant technological breakthrough. In collaboration with key manufacturing partners, we are focussed on becoming the leading supplier of HTS technology to multiple markets, providing magnet systems for other fusion companies to accelerate commercial development, as well as to address exciting new applications that can drive scientific discoveries, improve medical diagnostics, and contribute to advancements in mobility and security.
Opening new fields of performance for…
Fusion and renewable energy
HTS technology is enabling the next generation of magnetically confined fusion devices, which will play a vital role in a complete transition to a clean and secure energy future. HTS could also enhance the efficiency and power density of renewable energy devices, including wind turbines. In addition, it has the potential to provide grid stabilisation and load levelling through energy storage.
Science
Ultra-high field (UHF) HTS magnet technology will enable a new generation of high performance, reliable and cost-effective devices that will open up new levels of performance and drive scientific progress in areas such as physics research and materials analysis and characterization.
Mobility
HTS magnet technology can enhance mobility on land, in water, air and space, with potential applications including magnetic levitation, magneto hydrodynamic drive (MHD) and lightweight, powerful electric motors. Energy-efficient HTS technologies will contribute to reducing energy consumption and carbon emissions in the transport sector.
Security
HTS technology can enhance the performance and capabilities of a wide range of existing technologies as well as open the door to entirely new security applications. These include high-performance, efficient and low-noise MHD propulsion technologies, EM pulse, energy storage and electro-magnetic shielding.
