Press Release

Howden to supply world leading oil free screw compressor technology to the international nuclear fusion research project ITER in France

Howden has been awarded a contract with American based UT-Battelle (Oak Ridge National Laboratory) to supply the DYS Blowout Compressor and the Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) which will be an important part of the Tokamak Cooling Water System (TCWS). Tomkamak is a magnetic fusion device that has been designed to demonstrate the feasibility of fusion as a large-scale and carbon-free source of energy.

This development forms part of the international ITER project which represents thirty-five nations and is jointly funded by China, the European Union (host), India, Japan, South Korea, Russia and the United States. The project began construction in 2008 and brings together thousands of engineers and scientists. ITER will be the world’s largest tokamak.

The members of US ITER are now working on the next phase to deliver the Tokamak Cooling Water System (TCWS), which is one of the most challenging parts of the ITER project, as it has the highest number of system interfaces. Delivering the TCWS will be a key milestone in achieving first plasma by 2025.

Dougie Latta, Global Product Director (Screw Compressors) said:

“This is a significant order for Howden, as it represents the worldwide recognition of our technology. We are excited to be involved in such a large scale international research project and have the opportunity to supply an oil free screw compressor system to ITER. The design, build and manufacture will take place at our global headquarters in Renfrew.

We are constantly seeking to provide innovative products and the services, and being involved in the world’s first nuclear fusion project gives us more opportunities to do so. Our rich engineering heritage, combined with our focus on innovation to deliver advanced and customised technologies to our customers, is key to our continued success and growth. This project is a landmark win in our drive for a low carbon future.