MAGLEV 2000 URBAN TRANSIT SYSTEM

Document Type

Journal Article

Publication Date

2003

Subject Area

place - urban, mode - rail, mode - car

Keywords

Urban transit, Superconducting magnets, Operating speed, Magnetic suspension, Magnetic levitation, Electromagnetic suspension, Clearances (Railroads), Car clearances (Railroads)

Abstract

The MAGLEV 2000 (M2000) of Florida Corporation has designed magnetic levitation (maglev) and propulsion technology for high-speed intercity transportation systems capable of operating at speeds in excess of 300 mph. This high-speed technology can be adapted for slower-speed urban transit operations with operating speeds of 30 to 120 mph. M2000 preliminary baseline urban transit designs and essential criteria for a maglev technology to operate safely and efficiently in an urban transit environment are discussed. M2000 uses superconducting magnets on the vehicle, interacting with aluminum coils in the guideway for levitation, stability, and propulsion. The coils are completely encapsulated in polymer concrete panels, which are attached to the sides of a narrow-beam guideway. The vehicle straddles the beam with a 6-in. gap between the guideway surface and vehicle. Propulsion is provided through the linear synchronous motor coils and powered by alternating electrical current. The large clearance between vehicles and guideway with the superconducting M2000 magnet system ensures low-cost guideway construction because of more leeway with construction tolerances. These large clearances allow system operations under snow and ice conditions. The magnetic switch also allows for efficient off-line stations and permits increased train frequencies and operation of express trains without delays from locally stopping trains. Most of the components for a M2000 operating system have been constructed. A review is presented of manufacturing techniques, operating requirements, and performance results for a maglev transit project.

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