Tokamak Energy has strengthened its TE Magnetics business by acquiring Ridgway Machines. Ridgway will remain a subsidiary, keeping its brand, workforce, and facility. The deal is designed to expand TE Magnetics’ manufacturing capacity and accelerate the production of high temperature superconductor (HTS) products, a technology for fusion energy.
TE Magnetics launched in September 2024 to focus on the industrial deployment of high temperature superconductors (HTS). This technology will power future energy-producing fusion devices and has the potential to transform multiple industries.
Warrick Matthews, Tokamak Energy CEO, said: “Since launching the TE Magnetics brand, we have been successful in securing contracts for a range of HTS products and it is now time to scale up. The acquisition of Ridgway Machines, a thriving business with a highly skilled workforce, will accelerate TE Magnetics’ manufacturing method development to deliver high quality products at scale.
“Ridgway’s specialist engineering capabilities combined with TE Magnetics’ world-leading HTS design and prototyping knowledge will deliver breakthroughs in performance, efficiency, and accessibility across a wide range of industries, helping to address global challenges and accelerate the electric revolution.”
Andy Glanville, Ridgway Machines managing director, said: “Throughout our hundred-years history, Ridgway has always been forward looking. This track record means we are well suited to expansion and this new period of growth. In Tokamak Energy, we’re proud to be joining one of the UK’s most exciting technology businesses and to play our part in their ambitious and transformative plans.
“Both businesses exist to provide innovative solutions to some of the most pressing and important technological challenges the world is facing, and we can’t wait to get started on new projects together.”
HTS materials carry electricity with nearly no energy loss. When built into magnets, they create stable magnetic fields in compact, lightweight systems. These magnets support fusion energy and extend to fields such as zero-emission flight and analytical science.
Since 2012, Tokamak Energy has developed HTS magnets. The company uses advanced winding, testing, and production techniques to build robust and reliable magnet systems. These HTS magnets support industrial applications, including fusion, science and medicine, power systems, power distribution, manufacturing, and propulsion for land, water, air and space.
Source: Tokamak Energy
About Tokamak Energy
Tokamak Energy, founded in 2009 as a spin-off from the UK Atomic Energy Authority, is a private company headquartered in Milton Park, Oxfordshire, UK. Specializing in the development of compact spherical tokamaks and high-temperature superconducting (HTS) magnets, the company aims to deliver commercially viable fusion energy solutions. Serving industries focused on clean energy and advanced scientific research, Tokamak Energy has achieved significant milestones, including operating the ST40 tokamak, that reached plasma temperatures exceeding 100 million degrees Celsius in 2022. In addition to its fusion energy endeavors, the company collaborates on projects utilizing HTS magnet technology for various applications, such as silent marine propulsion systems. As of 2024, Tokamak Energy employs over 260 individuals. The company has raised substantial funding, including $250 million by 2022, to support its R&D efforts.
About Ridgway Machines
Ridgway Machines, founded in 1920 and based in Leicester, UK, develops winding and insulating solutions for superconducting magnets and cables, supporting TE Magnetics in scaling UK manufacturing for commercial production across multiple industries. The company designs and manufactures precision taping and winding machines for sectors including electrical, energy, oil and gas, subsea, and aerospace. Its portfolio includes conductor and cable taping systems, coil winding equipment, reinforced thermoplastic and composite pipe manufacturing lines, and machines for superconductor and nuclear power applications. Ridgway offers complete services from design and production to installation and support.
About TE Magnetics
TE Magnetics, launched in September 2024 as a division of Tokamak Energy, develops superconducting magnet systems designed for scalability, durability, and safety. The company focuses on serving industries including fusion energy, scientific research, medical devices, power systems, propulsion, and transportation. Its work combines scientific, engineering, and commercial expertise to move HTS magnets from research into industrial use across a range of applications. TE Magnetics is headquartered at Oxfordshire, UK.