Freemelt signs contract with Fusion for Energy to lead study in the field of tungsten tiles manufacturing

Freemelt and Fraunhofer IGCV

Freemelt in collaboration with Fraunhofer IGCV, part of Fraunhofer, Europe’s leading research organization for industrial applications, will contribute to the new Technology Development Programme of F4E, launched earlier this year, aiming to generate new know-how through R&D actions in order to bridge knowledge gaps in fusion technologies. This initiative, rolled out by F4E, is in line with the EU’s commitment to becoming more resilient, competitive, and a pioneer in science & technology.As part of the project, Freemelt and Fraunhofer IGCV will develop methods to optimize the joining of tungsten, which protects against extreme temperatures with copper, efficiently transferring heat to the cooling system.

F4E is responsible for the EU’s contribution to ITER, which roughly amounts to half of the project, with funds coming from the EU budget. One of the main tasks of F4E, is the consolidation of a supply chain for advanced materials, such as tungsten, used in ITER’s chamber walls. The partnership with Freemelt is part of the effort to coordinate research, production, and quality assurance to meet ITER’s extreme requirements for heat resistance, radiation tolerance, and lifespan.

A key player in ITER

“Being trusted to lead this project strengthens our position in the energy sector and further establishes us as a key player in ITER – the international fusion experiment, which will demand an unmatched supply of advanced materials over the coming decades,” says Daniel Gidlund, CEO of Freemelt.

Sweden’s role in sustainable energy systems

Max Collins, Big Science Sweden and Industrial Liaison Officer (ILO) for F4E/ITER adds: “A Swedish company like Freemelt taking a lead in ITER’s development is a clear sign of Sweden’s strength in advanced materials and manufacturing technologies.” 

“At Big Science Sweden, we see it as essential to create opportunities for Swedish actors to participate in these global, forward-looking initiatives – not only to drive innovation, but also to strengthen Sweden’s role in the next generation of sustainable energy systems.”