The Manufacture of the W7-X Superconducting Magnet System as Relevant Experience for the Construction of the Next Fusion Devices

The Wendelstein 7-X (W7-X) coils and structures are part of the largest superconducting fusion device being constructed at present. They represent a technical challenge at industrial level due to the stringent design requirements and the need for proven techniques and manufacturing processes in accordance to the highest quality standards. The production of these components requires the management of large contracts with a series of sub-suppliers and the collaboration with other research institutes for qualification and full-scale tests. This paper gives an overview of the manufacturing status, as well as the main project management and technical challenges. The lessons learned in the large scale production of this kind of magnet systems will be presented as relevant experience for the realization of future fusion devices, such as ITER.