Many books treat the physics of superconductivity; very few until now have covered the engineering. Superconducting Magnets meets this need, providing a complete theoretical basis for the quantitative engineering design of superconducting magnet systems, ranging from the small instrument magnets, now in everyday use as research tools, to the very large magnet systems used for work on thermonuclear fusion and magnetohydrodynamic power generation.

Wilson devotes particular attention to the problem of stabilization, a crucial factor in the design process because of its bearing on the overall reliability of the completed system. He also describes the essential features of field and stress calculation, although in less detail, since they are covered extensively in other works. Other topics considered are measurement techniques, current supply (with emphasis on heat exchanging cryogenic current leads), superconducting materials, the major applications of superconducting magnets, and some practical techniques of magnet manufacture.