1. Magnetically Levitated Trains (MagLev)
By Sarah Holko

2. What are MagLev trains? MagLev uses Electromagnetic Propulsion.
Trains are thrust forward by positively and negatively charged magnets.
The train floats on a cushion of air eliminating friction.

3. MagLev “Guideways” or Tracks
Track repels magnets on undercarriage of train, sending the train forward.
Train levitates between 1 and 10 cm above guideway.

4. MagLev vs. Conventional Trains
MagLev Trains
Conventional Trains
No Friction = Less Maintenance
Routine Maintenance
Needed
No Engine = No fuel required
Engine requires fossil fuels
Speeds in excess of
300 mph
Speeds up to 110 mph

5. Better for the Environment
Less energy consumption because no rail-track friction
Requires no fossil fuel which can harm the environment.
Less noise pollution since the train never hits the track
MagLev guideways and trains take up less space than conventional trains

6. Other MagLev Applications
Disneyland’s California Adventure Coaster
California Screamin’ roller coaster uses MagLev technology to propel car from 0-55 mph in less than 5 seconds!
Disneyland® - California Screamin'

7. Other MagLev Applications
U.S. military is looking into using MagLev
Possible uses could include:
Rocket launching
Aircraft carrier launching pad
Space craft launching

8. Travel Speeds
At 300 mph, you could travel to Paris to Rome in just 2 hours!
Anaheim to Las Vegas in just 86 minutes,
and cheaper than flying!!!!
Maglev

9. References
Bonsor, Kevin. “How Maglev Trains Work”. 5 September, <
Keating, Oliver. “Maglevs (Magnetically Levitated Trains)”. 16 June, <
Disney Online. “California Screamin’”. August, <
MagLev Systems. “Electromagnetic Systems”. General Atomics and Affiliated Companies <