Thales, in collaboration with the Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics, has achieved a significant breakthrough in the field of nuclear fusion. This achievement sets a world record in nuclear fusion thanks to the TH1507U gyrotron , a high-power device specifically designed for the Wendelstein 7-X stellarator , which reached an output of 1.3 megawatts at a frequency of 140 gigahertz, remaining stable for 360 seconds.
World record in nuclear fusion with Wendelstein 7-X
Thales’ gyrotron is essential to the magnetic confinement fusion process , a method that involves heating and stabilising plasma in the Wendelstein 7-X, the world’s largest stellarator. This equipment makes it possible to reach the temperatures required for nuclear fusion to occur , a technology seen as a potential source of clean energy .
The recent experimental campaign launched in September 2024 on Wendelstein 7-X underlines the Max Planck Institute’s commitment to developing a sustainable future through nuclear energy.
As the only European manufacturer of these electron tubes, Thales has worked closely with the European Gyrotron Consortium (EGYC) to ensure reliable production of high-power gyrotrons. This collaboration underlines the importance of maintaining technological autonomy in Europe, allowing the adaptation of the gyrotron to different frequencies and projects.
Plasma technology promises emission-free energy
Thales Vice President Charles-Antoine Goffin said the record represents an important step in the race for nuclear fusion, highlighting that the device puts the company at the forefront of plasma heating solutions. This breakthrough aims to better understand plasma behaviours and also to move towards viable fusion reactors that could meet growing energy demand without carbon emissions .
Nuclear fusion is projected as one of the most promising energy solutions due to its capacity to generate large amounts of energy, the abundance of resources required and also its low environmental impact. This achievement strengthens the objective of creating sustainable energy sources , supporting sectors such as transport, construction and the digital industry in the transition towards a cleaner energy model.
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Source: Thales
Main photo: AI generated
Internal photo: Max Planck Institute for Plasma Physics
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