MARKET ENGAGEMENT TO UNDERSTAND SUPERCOOLED MAGNET INSULATOR TECHNOLOGIES

Part of the STEP programme is the development of magnet insulators that will be used in the toroidal, poloidal and correction coils, as well as the central solenoid. These materials must encapsulate the coils to protect and stabilise the magnets from the hostile environment. This environment, particularly the high levels of neutron irradiation, present a significant materials challenge to select and validate potting compounds which avoid degradation in thermal, mechanical, and electromagnetic properties under these conditions. The aim of this project is to Engage with the wider market to understand and test current available materials which can be applied to the Requirements. UKAEA will survey and assess organic potting compounds for application in a fusion environment., including, but not limited to: epoxy blends, benzoxazines and polyimides, Identify, survey and assess inorganic material options, including, but not limited to, geopolymers. Engagement with wider industry to understand the range of available COTS products developed in other industries, such as aerospace, which could be applicable to the requirement.Follow on work might include mechanical testing of these products to validate their suitability for nuclear environments. Testing will be carried out by external suppliers, therefore engagement with wider industry to understand testing capability and standard testing procedures will also form a part of this project.