China: Robotic arm lifts weight equal to 10 elephants at fusion plant

China has just introduced a giant robotic arm system, capable of lifting loads of up to 60 tons while still ensuring millimeter-level accuracy. This technology was developed to serve the maintenance and inspection of thermonuclear reactors - which are likened to "artificial suns". With the ability to operate

According to Science and Technology Daily, China has just tested a giant robot system to help maintain a thermonuclear reactor, bringing the country closer to its long-term goal of building an “artificial sun.”

This remote-controlled testing system can operate in harsh environments with high temperatures, strong magnetic fields, and intense radiation – conditions where humans cannot survive. It consists of three robotic arms, including a main arm capable of lifting 60 tons – equivalent to 10 African elephants – with an accuracy of just millimeters.

The robotic arm was developed for maintaining fusion reactors. (Photo: China Media Group)

This platform was developed for the Comprehensive Research Base on Fusion Technology (CRAFT), a key project of the Institute of Plasma Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, in Hefei. CRAFT, nicknamed “Kuafu” after the mythological figure who chased the sun, complements the experimental EAST fusion reactor – often referred to as China’s “artificial sun.”

During the test, the main arm achieved a vertical elevation accuracy of 3-4 mm, while the two smaller arms were capable of repeated positioning with an accuracy of ±0.01 mm, according to Xinhua. CGTN said this is the most advanced remote control system currently in the field of thermonuclear fusion.

This precision is especially important because the reactor's internal components, such as shields and plasma diverters, are constantly exposed to extremely high temperatures and intense radiation. Regular maintenance is unavoidable, and robots are the only solution to ensure safety.

Compared with international technology, the robotic arm developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (Japan) for nuclear reactors can only lift a maximum of 2 tons - much lower than China's new system.

Currently, over 300 scientists and engineers are involved in CRAFT, which is expected to be completed by the end of this year. This achievement could support other major projects such as the superconducting fusion reactor in Hefei (expected to be operational in 2027) and the International Thermonuclear Reactor (ITER) in France, with the participation of 35 countries.

Experts also believe that this robotic platform has the potential for wide-ranging applications: from nuclear power plant inspection, aerospace development, operating heavy equipment to emergency rescue missions.

Thanh Tra

Link: Source: Interesting Engineering; Science and Technology Daily

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/trung-quoc-canh-tay-robot-nang-vat-nang-bang-10-con-voi-tai-nha-may-nhiet-hach-ar967016.html