Magnetic LevitationMagnetic Levitation-Murali Krishna.M-Murali Krishna.M

“Magnetic-Levitation” literally means floating in air.

Working concept behind Ultra-high speed / Supersonic trains Technology of Maglev

There are two primary types of maglev technology: Electromagnetic suspension (EMS) uses the attractive magnetic force of a

magnet beneath a rail to lift the train up. Electrodynamics suspension (EDS) uses a repulsive force between two magnetic

fields to push the train away from the rail.

Whenever a magnet sweeps across a conducting ladder, it tends to drag the ladder along with it

This horizontal tractive force is also accompanied by a vertical force of repulsion, which pushes away the magnet

This forms the basis for working of a magnetically levitated train

Working PrincipleWorking Principle

Pros and cons of different technologiesPros and cons of different technologies Technology Pros ConsEMS

EDS

Magnetic fields inside and outside the vehicle are insignificantProven commercially available technology with high speeds (500km/h)No wheels or secondary propulsion system needed

Large margin between rail and train enable highest recorded speeds (581km/h) and heavy load capacity

Recently demonstrated (Dec 2005) successful operation Using high temperature superconductors cooled with cost inexpensive liquid nitrogen

The separation between the vehicle and the guide way must be constantly monitored and corrected through computer systems to avoid collision due to the unstable nature of electromagnetic attraction

Strong magnetic fields would make the train inaccessible to passengers with magnetic storage media like hard-drives and credit cards, necessitating the use of magnetic shielding

Vehicle must be wheeled for its travel at low speeds

System per mile cost is still considered prohibitive

Track and Guiding SystemTrack and Guiding System

Vehicle on trackVehicle on track

Suspension and Propulsion systemSuspension and Propulsion system

50% reduction in Locomotive Weight 60% reduction in Power/ Fuel consumption No-Maintenance at all No-Friction (Air-resistance) Less Noisy Economical High Speeds Accidents are very rare Time is Saved Extremely Safe (even under Earth-Quakes) Complete Automatisation is possible (Driverless system)

Advantages of MaglevAdvantages of Maglev

Disadvantages of MaglevDisadvantages of Maglev

Installation Costs are too high because of Maglev guide paths

Lack with the existing infrastructure

Advancement in MaglevAdvancement in Maglev

Conclusions:Conclusions: Though installation being very costly, this system can prove to be

economical with overall consideration of

Energy consumption,

Pollution,

and Safety.

There is a lot of Future scope for Development and Implementation of such technology even in developing countries like INDIA.