China completes 582-tonne magnet for CRAFT fusion reactor
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China has completed and tested the world’s largest superconducting magnet, a critical component for the CRAFT experimental fusion reactor. The 582-tonne magnet, developed by the Institute of Plasma Physics, is designed to confine plasma at 100 million degrees Celsius — six times hotter than the core of the sun. Engineers also successfully tested a high-temperature superconducting central solenoid coil that will initiate and sustain the plasma current.
The Magnet
The magnet measures 21 meters in length and 12 meters in width, weighing 582 tonnes. It generates a magnetic field to suspend plasma in a vacuum, preventing contact with reactor walls. The plasma inside will reach 100 million degrees Celsius, compared to the 15 million degrees at the sun’s core. The Institute of Plasma Physics of the Chinese Academy of Sciences led the design and production of this component, which exceeds the specifications of those built for the international ITER project.
CRAFT Project Timeline
China aims to complete construction of the CRAFT (Chinese Fusion Engineering Testing Reactor) by 2027 and achieve energy output validation by 2030. Alongside the main magnet, a high-temperature superconducting central solenoid coil was successfully tested to initiate and sustain plasma current. All key components, from superconducting wires to specialized steel, were manufactured domestically. This progress positions CRAFT as a competitive step toward commercial fusion power.
What's Next
CRAFT construction is scheduled for completion in 2027, with initial fusion energy tests expected soon after. It remains unclear whether China can overcome the long-standing challenge of sustaining plasma confinement long enough for net energy gain.
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China completes 582-tonne magnet for CRAFT fusion reactor
