ASL Featured in New Podcast Series on Superconducting Machines and Systems
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September 22, 2026
The Applied Superconductivity Laboratory (ASL) at the University of Strathclyde is featured in a new podcast series, Superconducting Machines & Systems, produced in collaboration with Engineer a Career and the UK Atomic Energy Authority (UKAEA).
In the first episode, released on 15 September, Professor Weijia Yuan discusses the role of high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets in enabling future fusion power plants. The conversation explores how advances in superconducting technologies are helping to address one of fusion energy’s most significant engineering challenges: generating the powerful magnetic fields required to confine plasma at temperatures hotter than the Sun. Professor Yuan also shares his perspective on the rapid progress being made worldwide and why the coming decade could see the first fusion-generated electricity connected to the power grid.
The second episode focuses on superconducting power transmission technologies. Professor Yuan explains how superconducting cables can carry significantly higher current densities than conventional copper conductors while reducing transmission losses. The discussion highlights potential applications in electricity networks, offshore energy systems, data centres and other sectors that will play a key role in the transition to a low-carbon energy future.
Across both episodes, the series showcases how superconducting technologies are creating new opportunities in fusion energy, electrical power systems, transportation and renewable energy. The conversations also highlight the growing demand for engineers and researchers with practical skills in superconductivity, cryogenics and advanced energy technologies.
We would like to thank the Engineer a Career team for visiting ASL and helping to share the exciting work being carried out within the laboratory and across the wider UK superconductivity community.
