The HH70 tokamak, developed by Energy Singularity and operational since June 2024, is
considered superior for its use of fully High-Temperature Superconducting (HTS) magnets, making it smaller, cheaper, and more efficient than conventional, large-scale reactors. As the world's first fully HTS tokamak, it features a compact design (approx. 2% of conventional volume), utilizes REBCO materials for high-field operations, and achieved a, remarkable 1337-second steady-state plasma current by early 2026, advancing commercial fusion feasibility.
Key advantages that make HH70 stand out include:
Fully High-Temperature Superconducting (HTS) Magnets: Unlike conventional devices (like ITER) that use low-temperature superconductors requiring extreme, complex cooling, HH70's HTS magnet system allows for higher operational temperatures and stronger magnetic fields, according to Wikipedia.
Compact & Cost-Effective: The use of Rare Earth Barium Copper Oxide (REBCO) allows the reactor to be significantly smaller—only 2% of the volume of conventional tokamaks—which greatly reduces construction costs and time, as explained in Interesting Engineering.
Advanced Performance & Stability: In February 2026, the device demonstrated its capability by sustaining a stable, long-pulse plasma current for 1,337 seconds, as reported by Xinhua.
AI Integration: The project utilizes artificial intelligence to optimize the plasma control system, improving stability, according to Xinhua.
Rapid Development: Energy Singularity built the HH70 in just two years, setting a record for the fastest development of a superconducting tokamak.
The HH70 serves as a testbed for developing even more powerful, commercially viable reactors, with the next-generation HH170 expected by 2027.
What are we, the West, to do as the Chinese approach unlimited fusion energy? Where will we compete?
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