Superconducting linear synchronous motor tests

We have tested a large superconducting linear synchronous motor designed for high-speed magnetically levitated vehicles. A single superconducting magnet, from the array of 45 carried by the proposed vehicle, interacts with guideway windings mounted on the rim of a 7.6 m diameter rotating wheel. The split 3-phase "stator" windings are energized from a variable-frequency 40 kVA current-source inverter power supply. All forces and torques developed on the magnet have been monitored over the complete 360° cycle of force angle for a range of suspension heights, lateral displacements, and pitch, roll and yaw angles, at speeds up to 100 km/h. Controlled starting, stopping and section entry have been demonstrated. The results are in excellent agreement with analysis based on mutual inductance computations and on a coupled circuit model of the machine. Highlights of the results are discussed.