Spotlight on Innovation: An Interview with Stephen Maguire of Bose Corporation

We’re thrilled to launch our Speaker Spotlight series for The Magnetics Show with a feature on Stephen Maguire Maguire, a distinguished expert in the field of magnetic materials and power electronics. Stephen’s extensive career and pioneering work provide a unique insight into advancements in magnetics technology. Here’s a closer look at his remarkable journey:

From Wood Science to Mastery of Magnetics

Stephen’s career began in an unexpected field. “I have had a long career of continuous employment starting in 1980. My first BS was in Wood Science—if you can believe that! My first employer was Georgia Pacific. I soon found that I was more interested in the electronic technology that ran the structural waferboard mill than the waferboard product itself.”

This early fascination with technology set the stage for a significant career shift. “After a few years, I started a transition into computer and power electronics, which eventually resulted in my second degree in Electrical Engineering. I have been at Bose now for over 32 years. I joined to support a research project and then transitioned to power electronics support, focusing on our own induction heaters and magnetiser designs.”

Becoming Bose’s Magnetics Expert

Stephen’s expertise in magnetic materials evolved through his work at Bose. “These endeavours led me to magnetic FEA process modelling of our factory processes. Material knowledge gaps led me to study magnetic materials and especially permanent magnets. I am now Bose’s subject matter expert in permanent magnets and their applications.”

His role covers a broad spectrum. “I handle everything from the start of the magnet supply chain, through magnet specification and product design, to factory magnetising and assembly.”

Pioneering Innovations in Magnet Technology

Stephen has been instrumental in advancing magnet technology at Bose. “Bose was the first company to use rare earth magnets in a commercial loudspeaker. Our founders insisted on customer focus and engineering for customer value. Starting in the middle of the last decade, we moved aggressively to eliminate our customers’ exposure to Dysprosium by applying the latest magnet supplier technologies, such as grain size refinement.”

The results have been impressive. “Since nearly all sintered rare earth magnets are sliced and ground to shape, we simultaneously pursued pressing and machining yield optimisation. Our Dysprosium elimination and yield optimisation efforts were very successful.”

Advancing Sustainability and Innovation

Stephen’s current focus is on enhancing sustainability. “Today, we are working to reduce our customers’ exposure to PrNd metal price fluctuations by lowering PrNd content in some magnet grades. Over the last 1.5 years, I have been validating the application of partial Cerium substitution magnet technology in several of our loudspeakers.”

Stephen will be sharing his latest research at The Magnetics Show in Amsterdam. “Bose believes our attention to emerging magnet technology for loudspeakers impacts the sustainability of the rare earth magnet supply chain and brings value to our customers.”

Join Us in Amsterdam

We’re delighted to feature Stephen Maguire as the first speaker in our Spotlight series. Don’t miss the opportunity to hear his insights and benefit from his extensive experience. Join us at The Magnetics Show in Amsterdam on 3-4 December. Register now to be part of this groundbreaking event!

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