Abstract: A shorting element for closing a superconducting current path using contacts of a stabilized superconductor material with the contacts being brought together through the use of a mechanical actuating device, in which the contact surfaces of the contact elements are brought into contact using a pneumatic and/or hydraulic means operated by a pressure medium fed into the interior of at least one spring bellows. The shorting element, which is particularly useful in shorting superconducting magnets, is of a simple design, operationally reliable, and results in small coolant losses from the addition of heat through the shorting element.