Description

Copyright infringement not intended

Picture Courtesy: INDIA

Context:

China has successfully tested magnetic levitation (Maglev) technology, potentially enabling trains to travel faster than aircraft.

MAGNETIC LEVITATION (MAGLEV) TECHNOLOGY

What is Maglev Technology?

It is an advanced way to move vehicles using powerful magnets, most notably maglev trains, which float above the guideway (which is like a special track placed with electromagnets).

How it Works => The system uses principles of magnets:

Levitation (Lifting) => Powerful electromagnets on the train and within the guideway push against each other.

It create a strong repulsive force, which lifts the train a few centimeters above the track.

Guidance (Steering) => Other sets of magnets keep the train centered on the guideway, to prevent it from drifting sideways.
Propulsion (Moving Forward) => A "linear motor" system, built into the guideway and the train, creates a constantly changing magnetic field.

Background of Maglev Technology

American professor and inventor Robert Goddard and French-born American engineer Emile Bachelet conceptualized Maglev principles in the early 1900s.
Germany developed the Transrapid Maglev system, high-speed monorail train using magnetic levitation, in 1983.
Shanghai Maglev (Operational) is the world's first commercial Maglev line, operating since 2004.
Japan is building the world's first intercity superconducting Maglev line (SCMaglev).

How fast can these Maglev trains travel?

The latest Chinese Maglev train can reach speeds of up to 600 km per hour, faster than Passenger jets cruise at speeds (547-575 mph)

The test took place inside a vacuum tube designed to simulate near-zero air resistance, to allow the train to achieve its maximum speeds without drag.

What are the key benefits of Maglev technology?

Reduced travel times
No physical contact between the train and the track. This reduces friction, leading to:

Smoother Ride: Passengers experience minimal vibrations and noise.
Less Wear and Tear: Components last longer, meaning lower maintenance costs for the train and track.
Higher Energy Efficiency: Less energy is wasted overcoming friction.

Eco-Friendly => Maglev trains produce zero direct emissions.
Safety => The magnetic guidance system offers high stability, potentially reducing the risk of derailments common in traditional rail.

What are the limitations of Maglev technology?

High Cost of Infrastructure

New Infrastructure Requirement

Limited Network due to the high cost and dedicated infrastructure

FAQ

What key principles does Maglev technology use?

Maglev trains operate using two key electromagnetic principles: magnetic attraction (for levitation) and magnetic repulsion (for propulsion), with electromagnets stabilizing the train laterally.

What are some of the key benefits of Maglev technology?

Key benefits include speeds over 600 km/h, reduced friction leading to lower maintenance costs and higher energy efficiency, zero direct emissions, and passenger comfort due to minimal vibrations and noise.

How does Maglev technology enable such high speeds?

Maglev technology uses opposing magnetic fields to lift the train off its track, eliminating physical contact and significantly reducing friction, allowing for smoother, quieter, and faster movement.

Must Read Articles:

MODERNISATION OF INDIAN RAILWAYS

INDIAN RAILWAYS' PATH TO NET ZERO CARBON EMISSIONS BY 2030

Source: INDIA

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q. Which of the following statements about the maglev trains:

1. Maglev trains have lower noise levels compared to conventional railways.

2. The first commercially operational high-speed maglev line is located in Japan.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A) 1 only

B) 2 only

C) Both 1 and 2

D) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: A

Explanation:

Statement 1 is correct: One of the advantages of maglev technology is the absence of wheel-on-rail friction, which is a major source of noise in conventional trains. At high speeds, the noise from maglev trains comes from aerodynamic drag, but generally, they are quieter than conventional trains operating at similar speeds.

Statement 2 is incorrect: The world's first commercially operational high-speed maglev line is the Shanghai Maglev Train in China, which began commercial operation in 2004.