The volunteers didn't seem to notice the extra strain on their backs, but they did notice that they were uncomfortable, chiefly because of
the stiff metal rods that lined the harness and prevented them from moving normally.
This week, after evaluating two Fermilab proposals, CERN opted for welding on pistonlike, aluminum - jacketed
rods composed of a
stiff metal alloy to secure each eight - ton magnet in its housing, says Fermilab spokesperson Judy Jackson.