Introduction to MagLev - Magnetic Levitation for Transportation

Maglev Train

In last discussion, we discussed about the electromagnetic induction and application of induced eddy current in induction cooktop. Here, we will discuss about Electromagnets application in transportation field. Electromagnets are temporary magnets produced due to flow of electric current through conductor coil. It also has poles which can attract or repel depending upon the polarity. Repulsion force of the electromagnet used for levitation of objects. This electromagnetic levitation is about to bring the revolution in the transportation.

Maglev train is new way of transportation which uses magnetic levitation to transport the vehicle without touching ground. Magnetic levitation is used to create both lift and propulsion. Maglev moves more smoothly and quietly. Due to absence of friction power consumption for propulsion is relatively less and thus it holds some of high speed records for rail transportation.

Maglev Propulsion:

Maglev Guideway

Maglev is short for Magnetic Levitation. Unlike conventional train maglev do not have engine to pull cart along the track. Maglev floats over guideway using basic principle of magnetic repulsion and same used to propell the train. The magnetised coil running along the track, called guideway, repels the large magnets on the train's undercarriage, allowing the train to levitate 1 to 10 centimeters above the guideway. Once the train is levitated, power is supplied to coils within guideway walls to create a unique pattern of magnetic field that pull and push the train along the guideway. The electric current supplied to the coils in the guideway walls is alternating to change polarity of magnetized coils. This change in polarity causes magnetic field in front of train to pull the vehicle forward, while the magnetic field behind the train push the train. The propulsion is same as linear motor.

Linear Motor Propulsion for Maglev

Lack of friction and trains aerodynamic design allows the train, to reach ground speed of more than 500 km/h. In comparison, Boeing 777 can reach top speed of 905 Km/h. Developers say that Maglev will eventually link cities that are up to 1000 miles apart.

Germany and Japan both are developing maglev train technology. Although, based on similar concept, both have distinct differences in technology used to create lift and thrust. We will discuss more about it in next section.

How The Maglev Works