Researchers at the University of Florida (UF) have created a unique superconducting magnet capable of revolutionizing metal manufacturing, especially in the steel and aluminum industry. The technology, called Induction-Coupled Thermomagnetic Processing (ITMP), combines high-intensity magnetic fields with induction heating, accelerating heat treatment and reducing energy consumption by up to 80% compared to traditional methods.
Funded with nearly $11 million by the U.S. Department of Energy, the initiative seeks to position the country as a leader in the production of cleaner, more efficient alloys. The ITMP system allows for the alteration of the atomic structure of the metal, achieving rapid treatments with a smaller carbon footprint, and could be integrated with renewable energies to enhance industrial decarbonization.
The superconducting magnet, installed on a platform nearly two meters high in UF’s Powell Family Laboratory, processes steel parts up to 12.7 cm in diameter without losing field intensity, an unprecedented capability at this scale. According to researchers, processes that previously required hours can now be completed “in a matter of minutes,” benefiting sectors such as metallurgy, construction, and automotive.
Although still in the pilot phase, the technology is expected to be adopted industrially in less than 10 years, with companies in the sector collaborating on its implementation. In addition, UF students will be able to train with this system, preparing themselves for a more sustainable and energy-efficient industry.
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