By Antoine Azoulay
In an era of renewed space ambitions—from the Moon to Mars and beyond—fusion stands out as a potential game-changer. Promising a nearly inexhaustible, carbon-free energy source, fusion could radically reshape life on Earth and power future spacecraft across interplanetary distances.
Yet harnessing its potential demands extraordinary precision and technology. Fusion reactor cores can exceed 100 million degrees Celsius, requiring advanced materials—particularly copper chrome zirconium (CuCrZr) pipes—to cool the high temperatures in the plasma confinement chamber. Only a handful of companies can supply components reliable enough for this unforgiving environment.
Amid this challenge, YAMATO GOKIN has emerged as the only company producing specialized materials for the divertor—key fusion reactor parts that handle and convert extreme energy. Having built its reputation in Japan, YAMATO GOKIN has extended its customer base to Europe, outbidding established firms with its proprietary copper chrome zirconium (CuCrZr) and aluminum bronze (AlBr) alloys.
Divertor ©QST
President Genjiro Hagino sees growth continuing: “We have supplied France, Germany, South Korea and attracted interest from Italy and the UK. Ultimately, our goal is to gain clients in the USA’s fusion energy market - especially startups.”
Central to YAMATO GOKIN’s appeal is its flexibility. The company accommodates small orders vital for iterative prototyping, working closely with startup engineers to customize alloy compositions. This collaborative R&D thrives on a network of Japanese manufacturers, enabling delivery of CuCrZr products and complementary materials for demanding fusion reactor designs. Having served U.S. aviation and electronics clients, YAMATO GOKIN already understands American engineering norms, smoothing the path for partnerships with fusion ventures.
Yet the greatest factor uniting YAMATO GOKIN with pioneering American startups is a shared spirit of innovation. Despite its heritage, the company retains a startup ethos, investing heavily in employee education and tackling ambitious technical challenges. This mindset echoes the urgent drive of U.S. fusion developers seeking to unlock new frontiers in space and energy. As these innovators refine fusion reactors that could power interplanetary spacecraft or sustain entire cities, they will find in YAMATO GOKIN the materials, expertise, and collaborative passion needed to transform fusion from aspiration to reality. A partnership forged on mutual trust and shared vision.
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