AbstractThe physics results obtained from RFP experiments at high current (0.8–1 MA) indicate the need for a better control of the plasma MHD modes, which grow rapidly and lock to the wall during the pulse. The modifications planned for the RFX machine have been designed to guarantee both a passive and an active control of these modes. The present 65 mm thick aluminium shell will be replaced by a 3 mm thick copper shell which is assembled on the vacuum vessel, closer to the plasma edge. In addition 192 saddle coils will be installed to actively control the main mode spectrum of RFX. As a result of these modifications, a new toroidal support structure will be required, which carries out the mechanical functions of the previous shell and supports the new saddle coils. This paper deals with the design of the thin shell and toroidal structure. The solutions which guarantee the required safety level, from a mechanical and thermal point of view, and the technological details of the electrical insulation systems for the various components are highlighted.