What Is a Centrifuge and How Does It Work?

What Is a Centrifuge and How Does It Work?

According to the report of Next Move Strategy Consulting, Centrifuges Market is predicted to reach USD 1.97 billion by 2030 with a CAGR of 8.4% from 2024-2030.

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The market is advanced machines used to enrich uranium by separating isotopes. Although the provided news sources do not explain the technical details, centrifuges typically work by spinning uranium hexafluoride (UF₆) gas at very high speeds. This process exploits the slight mass difference between uranium isotopes—U-235 and U-238—causing the lighter U-235 to move closer to the center and the heavier U-238 toward the outer edge. Over time, this enables a gradual increase in the concentration of U-235, which is essential for both nuclear power generation and, at higher enrichments, weapons development.

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Summary of Section:

  • Centrifuges use rapid spinning to enrich uranium.
  • The process separates isotopes based on molecular mass.
  • High rotational speeds are crucial for efficiency.

Why Are Uranium Centrifuges Significant in Iran’s Nuclear Program?

According to BBC Report, Iran’s ability to enrich uranium depends heavily on its stockpile of centrifuges. As of November 2024, Iran signalled that it would activate a noticeable number of new and advanced centrifuges, particularly in response to international political developments. While specific counts vary across reports, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) noted Iran’s efforts to expand enrichment capacity through advanced machines like the IR-6.

Key Development:

  • Iran pledged to bring advanced centrifuges online following international censure, though exact activation numbers were not detailed in available sources.

Summary of Section:

  • Centrifuges are central to Iran’s nuclear capabilities.
  • Activation rates may shift based on political tensions.
  • Iran has pledged scale-up in response to external pressure.

How Have International Bodies Responded to Iran’s Centrifuge Activities?

On 22 November 2024, the IAEA Board of Governors adopted a resolution censuring Iran for failing to cooperate adequately with inspections and safeguards. The resolution was submitted by France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States. In direct response, Iran announced that it would activate new and advanced centrifuges at its major enrichment sites—Fordow and Natanz. However, Iranian authorities also emphasized that they would continue cooperating with the IAEA on technical and safeguards matters.

Summary of Section:

  • IAEA Board formally censured Iran for lack of transparency.
  • Iran responded by promising to expand enrichment.
  • Iran maintained that technical cooperation with IAEA would continue.

What Were the Impacts of Military Strikes on Iran’s Centrifuges?

According to CNN Report, in June 2025, Iran’s underground enrichment sites were hit by coordinated airstrikes from both Israel and the United States, significantly damaging the country’s centrifuge infrastructure.

Israeli Airstrikes (Natanz – 13 June 2025): Destroyed above-ground infrastructure and power systems; underground centrifuge cascades largely unaffected. Some centrifuge halls were seriously damaged but not completely destroyed.

U.S. Bunker Buster Strikes (Fordow – 21–22 June 2025): Massive bombs likely disabled centrifuges, though existence of underground cascades prevented total confirmation.

Summary of Section:

  • Israeli and U.S. strikes targeted Iran’s main enrichment sites.
  • Natanz suffered serious infrastructure and centrifuge damage.
  • Fordow’s centrifuges were rendered inoperable, according to the IAEA.

Next Steps: Actionable Takeaways

  1. Monitor IAEA Briefings:
    Track official reports for verified changes in Iran’s centrifuge operations or new installations.
  2. Assess Enrichment Stockpiles:
    Stay informed about Iran’s levels of enriched uranium, especially material enriched to 60% or higher.
  3. Engage in Diplomatic Dialogues:
    Support efforts to reinitiate talks aimed at setting clear boundaries on centrifuge use and enrichment thresholds.
  4. Support Infrastructure Security:
    Advocate for physical protection of nuclear facilities to avoid further disruption or escalatory attacks.
  5. Educate Stakeholders:
    Ensure that both policymakers and the public understand how centrifuge technology works and why it matters geopolitically.
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