Electromagnetism in Maglev Train

Maglev is an abbreviation of magnetic levitation. This technology uses 2 different sets of magnets to make the system work. The main use of this is with Maglev trains. One set of magnets are used to lift the train to reduce friction and the other set are used to accelerate the train. Magnetic Levitation is mainly used for trains but is also used for contactless melting micro-robotics and magnetic bearings for displays.

The fastest time a maglev has traveled was in Japan at 375 miles per hour. There are 3 types of maglevs, electromagnetic suspension, electrodynamic suspension, and the uncommon permanent magnet passive suspension.

The diagram below is for how an electromagnetic suspension (EMS) system works. They turn on and off charges to move the train along the rails

EMS System

The electrodynamic suspension (EDS) is very similar to the EMS system but the charges are on the sides, not the bottom. These trains have stronger magnetic fields and have larger magnets in the train itself but are able to go faster than the EMS. It is shown in the below image.

EDS System

  is the equation for magnetic pressure which is the lift that the magnets create when placed repelling each other. Also as long as one axis (one magnet) is stable then the whole system is able to be stabilized.

Superconductors are used to assist with this process. In order to create the strong magnetic fields needed to levitate and move a train, these trains use superconducting magnetic coils.