Robert Weggel

Robert John Weggel, also known as Bob Weggel, is an American physicist and magnet expert. celebrated for his groundbreaking work in magnet design and magnetic shielding. His illustrious career includes significant contributions to institutions such as MIT's Francis Bitter National Magnet Laboratory and Brookhaven National Laboratory. Bob is credited with designing the magnet recognized for creating the world's highest sustained magnetic field, earning him a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. Currently, he serves as a Board Advisor at Kronos Fusion Energy, where his expertise is vital in advancing fusion energy technology.
==Early Life and Education==
Bob Weggel was born on March, 1943, in Cleveland, Ohio, USA. His academic journey began at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), where he obtained a Bachelor of Science in Physics. He furthered his studies in applied mathematics at the Harvard Graduate School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, equipping him with a robust foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of magnetism and engineering.
==Career and Contributions==
Bob Weggel's career is marked by numerous achievements in magnet design and magnetic shielding, contributing to several high-profile projects and institutions.
====MIT Francis Bitter National Magnet Laboratory====
* Analytical Engineer and Applied Mathematician (1966–1996): Bob began his professional career at the MIT National Magnet Laboratory, where his exceptional skills and dedication led to his promotion to Assistant Group Leader of the Magnet Design Group.
* Assistant Head of the Magnet Technology Division (1992–1996): Bob played a crucial role in designing magnets for MIT's 'Alcator A' tokamak, which achieved the world's most intense continuous magnetic field. This accomplishment earned him recognition in the 1980s editions of the Guinness Book of World Records
====Brookhaven National Laboratory====
* Senior Magnet Designer (1996–2002): At Brookhaven, Bob specialized in the design of large cryogenic, superconducting, and SC/resistive hybrid solenoids of 20T or more. His work significantly advanced the laboratory's capabilities in high-field magnet technology.
====Particle Beam Lasers, Inc.====
* Senior Engineer: Bob's expertise extended to Particle Beam Lasers, Inc., where he focused on the electrical and structural analysis of toroidal and poloidal field coils, contributing to advancements in particle beam technology.
====Commonwealth Fusion Systems====
* Senior Magnet Designer: At Commonwealth Fusion Systems, Bob continued to push the boundaries of magnet design, working on cutting-edge fusion energy projects aimed at achieving sustainable and efficient energy solutions.
====Kronos Fusion Energy====
* Board Advisor: Currently, Bob Weggel serves as a Board Advisor at Kronos Fusion Energy. At Kronos, he has designed a 30-tesla magnet specifically for clean aneutronic fusion, demonstrating his continued innovation and leadership in the field of magnet technology. His profound experience in magnet design and magnetic shielding is instrumental in the development of the S.M.A.R.T. fusion energy generator. Bob's contributions are pivotal in propelling Kronos towards a future of clean, sustainable energy solutions.
====Magnet Optimization Research Engineering (M.O.R.E.), LLC====
* Proprietor (June 1996–Present): Bob is the proprietor of Magnet Optimization Research Engineering (M.O.R.E.), LLC, where he continues to innovate in the field of magnet technology. His ongoing work at M.O.R.E. exemplifies his dedication to advancing magnetic systems and contributing to cutting-edge research in the field.
==Publications and Research==
Bob Weggel has an extensive portfolio of research works, with 99 publications and numerous citations. His work spans various types of magnets, including iron-core, air-core, steady-state, long-pulsed, and short-pulsed magnets. He has a research interest score of 475.4, an h-index of 20, and over 1,240 citations. Some of his notable works include:
* "Proof-of-Principle Design of a High-Field Overpass/Underpass Nb3Sn Dipole" (2022) published in IEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity.
* "Common Coil Dipole for High Field Magnet Design and R&D" (2022) published in IEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity.
* "Hybrid High-Field Cosine-Theta Accelerator Magnet R&D With Second-Generation HTS" (2015) published in IEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity.
* "New, 'Super-Open,' MRI, and MRT Magnets" (2014) published in IEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity.
==Achievements==
Bob Weggel's contributions to magnet technology are widely recognized, most notably by his inclusion in the Guinness Book of World Records for creating the strongest continuous magnetic field. His innovative work has been pivotal in advancing the field of magnet design and magnetic shielding.
Bob has an impressive body of research, with over 99 research items and more than 1,240 citations, reflecting his significant impact on the field. His h-index of 20 underscores the influence and relevance of his work. His expertise spans various aspects of magnet technology, including superconductivity, magnetic materials, and cryogenics engineering.
Bob's notable achievements include:
* World Record: Inclusion in the Guinness Book of World Records for designing the magnet that achieved the world's most intense continuous magnetic field.
* High-Impact Research: Extensive contributions to high-field magnet design, including his work on the "Proof-of-Principle Design of a High-Field Overpass/Underpass Nb3Sn Dipole" and "Common Coil Dipole for High Field Magnet Design and R&D," both published in IEEE Transactions on Applied Superconductivity.
* Innovative Designs: Development of a 30-tesla magnet at Kronos Fusion Energy for clean aneutronic fusion, showcasing his continued innovation and leadership in magnet technology.
Bob has collaborated with prominent researchers and institutions, furthering the development and application of advanced magnet systems. His work has been essential in various high-profile projects, including muon collider and neutrino factory target systems, where he contributed to the design and shielding of superconducting coils.
Bob Weggel's dedication and pioneering contributions have left a lasting legacy in the field of magnet technology, driving advancements that support clean energy solutions and high-energy physics research.
==Skills and Expertise==
* Magnet
* Superconductivity
* Magnetic Materials and Magnetism
* Magnetic Properties
* Low Temperature Physics
* Magnetization
* Cryogenics Engineering
==Memberships and Affiliations==
Bob has been actively involved in various professional and cultural organizations, reflecting his multifaceted interests and commitment to community engagement.
* Vice President: Boston Summer Opera Theater
* Member: Pacific Lyric Theater
* Board Director: Mystic Valley Chamber Orchestra, La Jolla Civic Symphony
* President: Pacific Chamber Opera
== Personal Life ==
Bob Weggel is married and has been actively involved in supporting his spouse, who is an MCS (Multiple Chemical Sensitivity) patient. He has helped edit the newsletter of the Massachusetts Association for the Chemically Injured and has served as the treasurer of the New England Chapter of the Sierra Club. Bob's personal and professional lives reflect his deep commitment to both scientific excellence and community service.
An avid hiker, backpacker, and conservationist, Bob established the Robert J. Weggel CDT Legacy Fund in 2022 to support legacy projects with profound, long-term impact on the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. Inspired by the magnificence of the Rocky Mountains, Bob wishes to leave a lasting legacy to protect and conserve the Continental Divide.
Bob earned a B.S. degree in physics from MIT, followed by graduate work at Harvard. For thirty-six years, he designed magnets for the National Magnet Laboratory at MIT, with the Guinness Book of World Records citing him as co-designer of a magnet that generated the most intense continuous magnetic field in the world. He is currently contributing to the advancement of clean energy through his work in fusion energy.
Bob's love for mountains and wildlife has taken him around the world. He was first enraptured by Chomolungma (Mt. Everest) at age 9, leading to a lifelong passion for the outdoors. He has trekked extensively, including summiting Mount Whitney and all but nine of Colorado’s 14ers, with his most recent summit at age 73.
In addition to his trail-building and conservation efforts, Bob established the Robert J. Weggel AAC Opportunity Fund with the American Alpine Club (AAC). This quasi-endowment supports legacy projects focused on land conservation and promoting safe and responsible climbing. Bob’s contributions to the AAC and other organizations reflect his dedication to preserving the natural environment for future generations.
Bob's philanthropic efforts also include establishing RMFI’s first Endowment Fund in 2017 to support conservation and stewardship work. His contributions have significantly impacted the Friends of the Middlesex Fells Reservation, where he has been a dedicated volunteer and financial supporter.
Bob Weggel's passion for conservation, combined with his scientific achievements, highlight his commitment to making a positive impact on the world. His legacy funds and volunteer work ensure the protection and stewardship of natural landscapes for generations to come.
Category:1943 births
Category:American physicists
Category:American people
Category:People from Cleveland, Ohio