The operation of a single-sided linear induction motor with squirrel-cage and solid-steel reaction rails

Two test programs have been conducted to evaluate the performance of a single-sided linear induction motor with a squirrel-cage reaction rail and with a solid steel reaction rail. A 1.73 m long 6- pole stator interacted with the rails mounted on the rim of a 7.6 m diameter wheel. A 64-channel data acquisition system allowed tests to be performed over a wide range of operating conditions at speeds up to 20m/sec. Typical test results which compare and contrast the mechanical, electrical and magnetic behaviour of the SLIM´s are presented. The test data is being used to assess the SLIM as an integrated suspension/ propulsion system and for other transportation applications.