Magnetic Levitation Train

The problem is Friction 
The solution is MagLev 

As we strive for an ever quicker future.

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The trains currently used for transportation are no longer able to keep up.

MagLev Train

History Behind MagLev Train:

The vision of Maglev began in the early 20th century with two men: 

• Robert Goddard
• Emily Bachelet. 

Their dream was to develop a transistor that was faster, safer, and more reliable

Thus, they turned to Electromagnets. 

Physics:

When the North Pole of one magnet and the North Pole of another magnet pointed at each other. 

As a result, a push will be experienced away from each other. 

But if we put a South Magnetic Pole and a North one together they will attract.

Maglev incorporate both ideas to provide Levitation and Propulsion

In order for the Train to Levitate the two light poles are forced to repel each other. 

To provide Propulsion, the train is outfitted with a North and South Pole magnet so long as that the track also has north and south pole magnets. 

Thus poles are switched quickly and trains attracted to, simultaneously then repelled by the same magnet. 

What allows these trains to move faster? 

In short, the answer lies in electromagnetism; 

Electromagnetic Suspension (EMS) uses the attractive forces between Iron core electromagnets and Ferromagnetic rails. 

EMS Representation

Electromagnets, that have current flowing through them, are first placed on the underside of the carriage. 

This creates a magnetic field that is attracted to the stationary ferromagnetic reaction rails that are installed on the underside of the guideway. 

This attraction results in a distance of just 10 millimeters between the stator and support magnet.

This also allows the carriage to hover 150 millimeters above the top of the guideway

The second system is Electrodynamic Suspension (EDS),

Superconductivity Demonstration Levitation

EDS relies on the principle of superconductivity, 

Where by superconducting materials are cooled to extremely low temperatures.

The superconducting materials are placed on the side of the train carriage and interact with figure-eight shaped coils on the side of the guideway. 

The two forces work together to achieve an approximate levitation of 10 centimeters above the guideway. 

Propulsion is achieved by a linear synchronous motor, consisting of additional coils in the guideway that provide a three-phase alternating current. 

How MagLev trains are special?

The problem with traditional trains is that energy is lost through friction 

Maglev trains on the other hand address this problem by eliminating contact with the guideway. 

Traditional Train

Thus, they have longer lifetimes, lower operating costs, and can travel significantly faster and quieter than traditional trains. 

Comparison between EDS & EMS:

Furthermore, EMS trains have the added advantage of reduced civilian exposure to magnetic fields when compared with EDS. 

EDS, on the other hand, is potentially safer. 

They do not crash immediately into the guideway in the event of a power outage. 

For EMS systems, expensive processing computers are needed. 

Pros & Cons of MagLev:

MagLev trains are that they are very expensive costing between 50 and 200 million dollars per mile.

Comparing MagLev reports with high-speed rail cost a lot.

Cost of building Maglev trains and their accompanying infrastructure is expensive

The speed, efficiency, and safety they provide will ultimately become vital.

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