Examec, Uppsala University and GSI – From AIMday challenge to business opportunities

The project set out to make a proof-of-concept for this innovative magnet architecture, which is crucial for high-field septum magnets used in particle accelerators. Septum magnets play a central role in injection and extraction processes, and higher field strengths will be required both at FAIR in Darmstadt and at CERN’s Future Circular Collider (FCC).

Over the course of 2024–2025, the partners have successfully designed, produced, and tested a normal-conducting mock-up magnet. The tests confirmed the expected magnetic field strength and showed that the design principles are sound, providing an excellent foundation for moving on to the next step: a superconducting prototype.

Exploring applications and markets

The collaboration has also explored potential application areas and identified strong market drivers. In high-energy physics, the magnet has the potential to become a critical component in future accelerator facilities. In the medical sector, its compact design and reduced cooling needs make it highly attractive for next-generation ion therapy systems, particularly in proton and carbon beam therapy.

AIMday delivers impact

Fredrik Engelmark, at Big Science Sweden and Industrial Liaison Officer (ILO) for FAIR, says: “This is a perfect example of how AIMday delivers results. What starts as a challenge discussed in a workshop can quickly grow into a concrete project, creating opportunities for both research facilities and industry. And importantly, it can lead to real business for Swedish suppliers.”