Maglev (Magnetic Levitation) Trains
Quick Facts
- Setting: Long-distance shuttle service, intercity networks
- Station spacing: 5-∞ mi.
- Operating speeds: 70-330 m.p.h.
- Vehicle capacity: 80-120 passengers per car, train lengths up to 12 cars
Magnetic Levitation, or Maglev, is a technology that allows for vehicles to move without friction against the infrastructure on which they travel. It's a method for moving trains at very high speeds without the need for large, onboard propulsion systems, or overhead catenary-hung wires, although has not been widely implemented.
Maglev trains have no resistance against its track because a strong magnetic field is used to levitate the train above the guideway.
Technology
The general concept is that trains can travel at high speeds, without strong propulsion systems or friction against the surface on which it travels by being levitated through magnetism. Propulsion systems generally involve alternating magnetic polarity to use magnetic force to propel the vehicle. Some methods for accomplishing this involve maglev trains rolling in physical contact with the guideway to a start and then reaching a state of levitation.
Despite the lack of physical friction, wind resistance and technological limitations at high speeds is enough to limit maglev trains to speeds similar to that of high speed rail, and also generate enough sound from wind wrapping around the vehicle to be nearly as loud as standard high-speed rail.
Recent achievements in advancing traditional high speed rail have surpassed the maximum speeds achieved with magnetic levitation vehicles.
See also
- Wikipedia: Maglev