Project objectives
The SF-Cond project aims to develop high-current conductors based on high-temperature superconductors (HTS) in particular for magnetic confinement fusion applications. The aim is to design, prototype, test and qualify multi-tape conductors capable of carrying currents of up to 80 kA in under high magnetic fields (20 T), while guaranteeing high mechanical strength and efficient cryogenic cooling, for safe and stable operation.
Scientific background
Until now, applications using High Temperature Superconductors (HTS) have mainly used one- or two-tape current carrying elements, enabling the transport of a few hundred to a thousand amperes.
However, to achieve high magnetic fields, and in particular for large fusion magnets, the use of a single tape becomes insufficient and inadequate.
Scientific and technological challenges
Improving the transport of high currents
Develop HTS conductors capable of carrying tens of thousands of amperes, essential for fusion magnets.
Creating multi-tape conductors
Design multi-tape architectures to equally distribute the current and limit local failures.
Validating conductors under real-life conditions
Test conductors in environments simulating the extreme constraints of fusion: intense and varrying magnetic fields, high currents, cryogenic temperature.
Developing industrial applications
Ensure reliable, cost-effective industrial production for applications such as fusion reactors, high-performance MRIs and superconducting power grids.
Partners involved
This project is being carried out in collaboration with several laboratories and research centers
CEA (IRFM, IRFU)
General coordination, conductor design and prototyping, expertise in fusion magnets and cryogenic testing.
CNRS (NEEL, LNCMI)
Study and modeling of HTS tapes, analysis of quench phenomena. Tests of conductors and tapes under high magnetic fields up to 20 T.
AMU (LMA)
Multi-scale modeling and mechanical testing of composite conductors and structures.
CentraleSupélec (LMPS)
Numerical simulation and modeling of the mechanical behavior of superconducting cables.
University of Lorraine (GREEN)
AC loss modeling and experimental testing of HTS conductors
ENSI-Caen
Study of materials and non-destructive testing (NDT) techniques to ensure that the HTS conductors developed meet stringent performance and safety requirements.
Project challenges
From small to large scale
Building the right conductor architecture to preserve in the full conductor the best properties from the constitutive tapes. Ensuring that this architecture is opening new possibilities & performances for applications.
Developping adequate jointing techniques
Develop the required low-resistance joint designs that enable to unleash the conductor’s full capacity while being mechanically stable and geometrically constrained
Technology industrialization
Ensure compatibility with industrial tools, produce reliable conductor lengths and guarantee rigorous quality control.
Methodology and approach
01
Review and analysis
Study existing conductors, define key performances and identify specific needs for fusion magnets.
02
Innovations and tests
Propose innovative designs, build prototypes and test them under real-life conditions (high current, cryogenics).
03
Synergy with SupraFusion projects
Collaborate with other projects to integrate advances in materials, magnet protection and fusion system design.
Notable Results
Review of HTS conductors completed: More than 20 conductors were analyzed, along with their respective properties, characteristics, and test results.
Enhanced in modeling techniques: Upgrade or development of modeling tools to tackle the main challenges (current redistribution, AC losses, mechanics, quench, and cryogenic cooling)
Design and Procurement of cable manufacturing tools: The tools for the near-term production of helically wound cable prototypes have been designed and procured. They are currently being commissioned.
Upgrading of test facilities : Test facilities were either designed from scratch or upgraded in order to adapt to HTS properties. A 77K/10kA bath-cooled test bench (CRISTAL) as well as a 77K insert for our AC losses facility (Josefa) were developped.
International project review: On dec 11-12th 2025, 4 reknowned experts participated in the 1st SF-Cond review. The panel members were appreciative of the assembled expertise and of the work initiation.
Panel closing statement
- The panel supports is appreciative of the amount of work carried out in a rather modest time frame (1 year) within a well driven organization.
- The program is rather ambitious. The adequation of resources vs development cannot be properly evaluated at the moment due to lack of information, clarification would be appreciated there.
- Yet the panel formulates the following recommendation : in case of available resources are not enough to match the desired goals and ambitions, additional funding shall be pursued