Maglift Monorail
- Sandia National Laboratories
In the 1990s, significant experience has been gained with high-speed passenger rail technologies. On the one hand, high speed versions of conventional-configuration trains, such as the French TGV, have proven themselves in service; on the other hand, magnetic levitation (maglev) trains such as the German Transrapid, which some expected to supplant conventional trains in some high speed applications, have not yet proven themselves and face a problematic future. This is because of maglev's high capital cost, the magnetic drag which it introduces, and the high development risks associated with this complex technology. This paper examines a new form of high-speed train expected to be capable of speeds of 300 mph, the Maglift Monorail. The Maglift Monorail was developed by simplifying and improving two well-understood technologies--wheelsets and LIMs--and then integrating them. The solution is a vehicle with flangeless wheels mounted in two axes, powered by a high-efficiency and light-weight LIM, positioned to give magnetic lift (maglift), i.e., electromagnetic force in the vertical direction which reduces the vehicle weight on the suspension, and thereby reduces static and rolling drag. Maglift can be considered a form of maglev as it uses the same electromagnetic forces to lift and propel the vehicle. This solution is presented in a Spanish-designed monorail system which has a unique suspension designed to minimize friction while giving great stability and turning capability. This monorail vehicle is propelled by the Seraphim motor (Segmented Rail Phased Induction Motor) which virtually eliminates magnetic drag and provides significant maglift. The Maglift Monorail achieves lower operating costs and a greater overall reduction in drag than conventional noncontact maglev does, and it does so without incurring maglev's high capital costs or its technology development risks.
- Research Organization:
- Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (US); Sandia National Labs., Livermore, CA (US)
- Sponsoring Organization:
- US Department of Energy (US)
- DOE Contract Number:
- AC04-94AL85000
- OSTI ID:
- 7893
- Report Number(s):
- SAND99-1498C
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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