Abingdon-based company ships 20th superconducting magnet

Abingdon-based Scientific Magnetics (SciMag) has shipped its 20th superconducting magnet designed for quantum computing applications, marking a key milestone for the company and the sector.

Quantum computers use the principles of quantum mechanics to process information faster than conventional computers, enabling them to solve problems too complex or large for even the most powerful classical computers.

Clint Gouveia, managing director of SciMag, said: “Delivering our 20th superconducting magnet for quantum computing applications is a significant achievement for our team, who are working at the leading edge of the quantum computing revolution.”

The shipment follows Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ announcement of a £2.5 billion investment in the UK’s AI and quantum technologies sector.

In her Mais lecture on March 17, Ms Reeves outlined plans to make the UK the first country to deploy quantum computers at scale.

Stuart Gall, CEO of Avingtrans PLC Medical and Industrial Imaging Division, described the delivery as a significant milestone for the company.

He said: “With its combination of superconducting magnet technology and deep environmental expertise, the company is positioned right at the heart of this new technology, supplying essential components that underpin the qubit architecture needed to scale the industry at large.”