Completion and Handover of the Final Correction Coil In-Cryostat Feeder for the ITER Project

The feeder system plays a crucial role in delivering energy and control signals to the core plasma. (Image by HFIPS)

The Institute of Plasma Physics (ASIPP) under the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, reached a significant milestone by completing and handing over the final Correction Coil In-Cryostat Feeder (CC ICF) for the ITER project.

This achievement marks the successful completion of all major components of the ITER magnetic feeder system.

Often referred to as the “lifeline” of the magnet system, the ITER magnetic feeders play a vital role in power transmission, cooling, and the safe discharge of magnetic energy during fault conditions. They are responsible for delivering electrical power and control signals to the core plasma, ensuring stable fusion reactor operation.

ASIPP has designed, built, and tested the entire system—comprising 31 feeder sets with a total weight of approximately 1,600 tons.

Among them, the correction coil in-cryostat feeders span 16 meters in diameter and three meters in height, manufactured to exacting standards to achieve ultra-low electrical resistance and high insulation reliability.

To overcome technical challenges, the team introduced several innovations, such as precision measurement systems for large-scale components and advanced insulation methods. Additionally, they developed superconducting junction boxes with resistance values below 0.5 nanoohms.

Since taking on the ITER feeder procurement package, the team has successfully completed 85% of the assigned tasks, overcoming significant technical challenges along the way. Over 100 major components have been delivered, with the domestic manufacturing rate of critical parts rising from 31% to 100%.

This achievement highlights ASIPP’s sustained dedication and significant contributions to the progress and success of the ITER project.