High-Field Safety Zones
Very strong static magnetic fields require controlled zones for magnetic objects and implants, a purely physical precaution.
The magnets produce extremely strong static magnetic fields — up to 16.84 T peak in the breeder (Hyperion) and 26.49 T at the burner's plugs, with 17 T at the throat. Strong fields exert force on ferromagnetic objects and can affect certain medical implants. The precaution is straightforward: control what enters the high-field region.
The physical precautions
- Projectile risk: ferromagnetic tools become projectiles near strong fields — excluded from field zones.
- Implant screening: personnel with certain medical devices are screened before entry.
- Zoned access: field-strength contours define staged access zones with signage.
- Non-magnetic tooling: maintenance uses non-ferromagnetic tools in field areas.
These are the same precautions used around high-field research magnets and, at lower fields, MRI suites — an established discipline. The controls apply only while the magnets are energized; during maintenance the coils are de-energized under protected sequences, and the field zone precautions lift accordingly.
Static-field exposure
Direct human exposure to strong static magnetic fields is separately addressed by occupational exposure guidance — see magnetic field worker safety. As with the other magnet hazards, high field is a physical, non-radiological concern with well-defined mitigations.
Nothing about high-field safety involves the plasma or radiation; it is classic strong-magnet safety practice applied at the fields Kronos requires.