Magics contributes to the UKAEA RACE FFIC programme
Magics recently participated in the Fusion Futures Industry Capabilities (FFIC) programme led by UKAEA RACE. The initiative focuses on developing Fusion-Oriented Robotic Technology (FORT), enabling the reliable operation of robotic systems in high-radiation fusion environments.
Demonstrating a radiation-tolerant motor drive
As part of the Actuation and Sensing strands, Magics developed a 90W BLDC motor inverter demonstrator using its Motion Series ICs in combination with selected commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components.
The objective was to validate that high-reliability ICs can be integrated into a broader system architecture to enable motor control in radiation environments.
The demonstrator includes:
- Open-loop BLDC motor control
- Rotor position sensing
- Motor current measurement
This setup reflects typical requirements for robotic and remote handling systems used in fusion and nuclear facilities.
“UKAEA RACE provided a strong application-driven framework, allowing us to move beyond component-level validation and demonstrate how our ICs perform within a full system. This type of collaboration is essential to de-risk adoption in complex environments like fusion.” Sam Thys, Magics’ Project Lead
Extending validation beyond the IC level
In addition to system development, Magics performed gamma Co-60 irradiation testing on the selected COTS components.
The goal was to assess their behaviour under radiation exposure up to 1 MGy (Si) Total Ionizing Dose (TID), providing insight into how non-rad-hard components can be combined with Magics’ radiation-tolerant ICs in a system-level design.
This approach helps reduce integration risk and supports more predictable system performance in harsh environments.
Enabling robotics for fusion applications
Robotic systems are critical for inspection, maintenance, and remote handling in fusion facilities. These applications require electronics that can operate reliably in the presence of radiation while maintaining precise control and feedback.
By combining rad-hard-by-design ICs with validated supporting components, Magics contributes to enabling these systems at the application level.
"This project work to advance motor control technologies required for future fusion energy was made possible through the Fusion Futures Industry Capability (FFIC) funding. RACE (UKAEA) is pleased to have contracted Magics whose expertise in radiation tolerant IC design enabled development and demonstration of a complete motor control solution using radiation tolerant technologies." Mike van de Mortel, UKAEA
Looking ahead
Magics continues to engage with partners and customers, developing robotics and automation solutions for nuclear and fusion environments.
If you are working on similar challenges, feel free to reach out to discuss how our Motion Series can support your system design.
Note: Our Motion Series is developed with funding from @Fusion for Energy.
