Charles Proteus Steinmetz
Charles Proteus Steinmetz (born Karl August Rudolph Steinmetz; April 9, 1865 – October 26, 1923) was an American mathematician and electrical engineer and professor at Union College. He fostered the development of alternating current that made possible the expansion of the electric power industry in the United States, formulating mathematical theories for engineers. He made ground-breaking discoveries in the understanding of hysteresis that enabled engineers to design better electromagnetic apparatus equipment, especially electric motors for use in industry.
Charles Proteus Steinmetz | |
|---|---|
| Born | Karl August Rudolph Steinmetz April 9, 1865 Breslau, Province of Silesia, Prussia |
| Died | October 26, 1923 (aged 58) Schenectady, New York, United States |
| Resting place | Vale Cemetery |
| Nationality | American |
| Alma mater | University of Breslau Union College (doctorate) |
| Occupation(s) | Mathematician and electrical engineer |
| Known for |
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| Awards | Elliott Cresson Medal (1913) Cedergren Medal (1914) |
| Scientific career | |
| Institutions | Union College |
At the time of his death, Steinmetz held over 200 patents. A genius in both mathematics and electronics, he did work that earned him the nicknames "Forger of Thunderbolts" and "The Wizard of Schenectady". Steinmetz's equation, Steinmetz solids, Steinmetz curves, and Steinmetz equivalent circuit are all named after him, as are numerous honors and scholarships, including the IEEE Charles Proteus Steinmetz Award, one of the highest technical recognitions given by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers professional society.