China tested superconducting electric maglev transportation system at 600 kmph speed

Changchun, China (Urban Transport News): China successfully tested its first high-temperature superconducting electric levitation system in the northeastern city of Changchun on 31st March 2023, marking a technological breakthrough for the country in the domain.

The operation fully verified core technologies including superconducting magnets, linear synchronous traction, induction power supply and low-temperature refrigeration, laying a solid foundation for promoting the superconducting electric maglev transportation system.

The system is suitable for high-speed, ultra-high-speed and low-vacuum pipeline application scenarios.

The Superconducting Maglev is a magnetic levitation (maglev) transportation system based on the principles of magnetic attractions and repulsions between the guideway and the cars. Superconducting Maglev technology creates one of the safest and fastest transportation systems in the world.

Superconductivity is a phenomenon that occurs where the electrical resistance of certain materials approaches zero when cooled to a very low temperature, allowing for an electric current to flow permanently and efficiently.

Instead of traditional train tracks, Superconducting Maglev trains use powerful magnets to levitate in a unique concrete guideway. The U-shaped guideway is equipped with wire coils that interact with the train’s superconducting magnets. This interaction between the guideway coils and superconducting magnets provides propulsion, levitation, guidance, and braking – keeping the train locked in the guideway, and eliminating the possibility of derailments.

Superconducting Maglev magnets are both lightweight and incredibly powerful, allowing SCMAGLEV trains to accelerate faster than any other high-speed rail or maglev system. Acceleration and deceleration are computer controlled for a smooth, comfortable ride.

The lack of electrical resistance in superconducting magnets allows the Superconducting Maglev to consume 30% less energy than other high-speed maglev trains, and 50% less than a commercial airliner – making it one of the most efficient modes of large scale transit.