Maglev Trains: Floating on Magnets

Wheels have friction. Wheels have speed limits (they explode at 350mph). To go faster, we must fly. Maglev = Magnetic Levitation.

Repulsion and Guidance

We line the track with magnets (North). We line the train with magnets (North).

• North repels North.
• The train lifts 10cm off the concrete.
• Friction = 0.

Linear Motors (The Invisible Hand)

How does it move forward? There are no wheels to spin. We use a Linear Motor. Instead of a round motor spinning, we unroll the motor flat along the track.

• The track electromagnets switch ON and OFF in a wave.
• N… N… N… -> Pulls the train forward.
• S… S… S… -> Pushes the train from behind. The train surfs on a magnetic wave. It is the most efficient, smoothest ride on Earth.