MAGLEV TRAINS Branch – EXTC 2 Semester – 2 Batch Group 2 Communication Skills

MAGLEV is the principle used in working of Maglev Trains. MAGLEV – Derived from MAGnet and LEVitation. Method of supporting and transporting objects which is based on the physical property that the force between two magnetized bodies is inversely proportional to their distance. Magnetic force counterbalances the gravitational pull between a magnet and a guideway.

 Maglev principle can be applied in two ways- 1. Electro-Magnetic Suspension (EMS) System 2. Electro-Dynamic Levitation (EDL) System

1. Electro-Magnetic Suspension (EMS) System  It is attraction type of system.  Magnet- guideway geometry is used to attract a direct- current electromagnet towards the track.  EMS levitates the train about one-third of an inch above the guideway.  Maglev train (Transrapid) in Germany works on EMS.

2. Electro-Dynamic Levitation (EDL) System  It is repulsion type of system.  Eddy currents are generated by superconducting coil operating in persistent current mode.  Eddy currents create a magnetic field and opposes the magnetic field created by traveling coil by Lenz’s law.  EDL levitates the train about 4 inches (10 cm) above the guideway.  Maglev train in Japan works on EDL.

 The electromagnets on the underside of the train pull it up to the ferromagnetic stators on the track and levitate the train.  The magnets on the side keep the train from moving from side to side.  A computer changes the amount of current to keep the train 1 cm from the track. This means there is no friction between the train and the track!

 The passing of the superconducting magnets by figure eight levitation coils on the side of the tract induces a current in the coils and creates a magnetic field. This pushes the train upward so that it can levitate 10 cm above the track.  The train does not levitate until it reaches 50 mph, so it is equipped with retractable wheels.

 Batteries on the train power the system, and therefore it still functions without propulsion.  The batteries can levitate the train for 30 minutes without any additional energy.  Linear generators in the magnets on board the train use the motion of the train to recharge the batteries.  Levitation system uses less power than the trains air conditioning.

 The system consists of three- phase cable windings in the stator packs.  On supplying current to the windings, it creates a traveling alternating current that propels the train forward.  When the alternating current is reversed, the train brakes.  Only the section of track where the train is traveling is electrified.

When one side of the train nears the side of the guideway, the super conducting magnet on the train induces a repulsive force from the levitation coils on the side closer to the train and an attractive force from the coils on the farther side. This keeps the train in the center.

 The trains are virtually impossible to derail because the train is wrapped around the track.  Collisions between trains are unlikely because computers are controlling the trains movements.  There is very little maintenance because there is no contact between the parts. Safety Maintenance Comfort  The ride is smooth while not accelerating.

 The initial investment is similar to other high speed rail roads.  Operating expenses are half of that of other railroads. Economic Efficiency  The train can travel at about 300 mph.  For trips of distances up to 500 miles its total travel time is equal to a planes (including check in time and travel to airport.)  It uses less energy than existing transportation systems. Speed Eco Efficiency  Petroleum Independence. Less Polluting.

 The train makes little noise because it does not touch the track and it has no motor.  Therefore, all noise comes from moving air.  This sound is equivalent to the noise produced by city traffic. Noise Pollution

The magnetic field created is low, therefore there are no adverse effects. Magnetic Field

 Large initial capital investment.  Lack of human experience with Maglev technology.  Designing of tracks.

 Confirmation for possibilities of safe, comfortable, and stable run at 500 km/h.  Confirmation of structural standards including the minimum radius of curvature and the steepest gradient.  Confirmation of vehicle performance in relation to tunnel cross-section and to pressure fluctuations in the tunnels.  Confirmation of environmental impact.  Establishment of multiple-train operation control systems.  Confirmation of operation and safety systems and track maintenance criteria.

 It’s top speed with people aboard is 350 mph.  The super conducting magnets create a strong magnetic field that could be a problem for some passengers.  The train is earthquake proof because the greater space (10 cm) between the track and the train leaves more room for track deformation.  Linear generators will produce all the electricity needed in the train’s interior.  Only the part of the track that is used will be electrified so no energy is wasted.

 Maglev trains use magnets to levitate and propel the trains forward.  Since there is no friction these trains can reach high speeds.  It is a safe and efficient way to travel.  It is environment and user friendly.  Governments have mixed feelings about the technology. Some countries, like China, have embraced it and others like Germany have balked at the expense.

Prepared by:  Ankit Chadha  Prathamesh Birwatkar  Pranav Bhedi  Pravin Chavan  Ramchandra Cheke  Madhur Chauhan