Freemelt and UKAEA (United Kingdom Atomic Energy Authority) have been working together since 2023 on the development of material processes for E-PBF (Electron Powder Bed Fusion) printing of tungsten components for use in fusion power plants.
The energy industry is facing significant developments, driven by technological advances and the growing awareness of the need for sustainable, fossil-based energy sources. Fusion technology, which is seen as a potential solution, is a particular focus of interest.
Freemelt CEO Daniel Gidlund comments: “We are excited and motivated to enhance our partnership with UKAEA and be an active part in the rapid advancement of renewable energy initiatives. Fusion energy applications are among the most challenging ones to provide components for, due to the harsh conditions, therefore it is especially rewarding that Freemelt has been given the trust to support UKAEA in this endeavor.”
Doctor Miguel Zavala-Arredondo, UKAEA comments: “Fusion is one of the great scientific and engineering challenges of our time. I am pleased that, following the successful results of our first project, we will continue the partnership with Freemelt, focusing on scalability and increasing technology readiness.”
Fusion occurs when light nuclei fuse to form a heavier nucleus, a process that releases enormous amounts of energy. Unlike nuclear fission, the principle of today’s nuclear power plants, fusion is based on the same processes that power the sun and stars. It has the potential to form a safe and sustainable part of the future energy supply as it can produce abundant energy with low carbon emissions and no highly radioactive waste.
The extended collaboration between Freemelt and UKAEA demonstrates the ongoing commitment and progressive efforts to develop fusion technology as a sustainable energy source of the future.
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