Propulsion Requirements for High-Speed Vehicles with Electrodynamic Suspension

The thrust force and power requirements for the propulsion of a vehicle with electrodynamic suspension (i.e., using superconducting magnets) are discussed. Acceleration thrust, magnetic drag, and aerodynamic drag are shown to lead to calculated power requirements of 8.0 MW under acceleration, and 5.2 MW for cruising at 300 mi/h. Aerodynamic and magnetic drag forces together produce acceptable passive deceleration characteristics. Propulsion requirements under normal operation and in emergency situations (i.e., unscheduled stops) are described. Propulsion systems are discussed, and it is concluded that the linear synchronous motor is most suitable for the proposed Maglev vehicle.