Magnetic Levitation Train

Maglev Train

Maglev trains are Magnetic Levitation trains. The trains float over the railway using basic magnetic principles. In maglevs that use magnetic repulsion, the magnets on the guideway repel the magnets on the bottom of the train, causing the train to be in a hovering position, this is electrodynamic suspension. These use less electricity than conventional electromagnets, but have to be cooled to temperatures below-100 degrees Celsius. 

In maglevs that use magnetic attraction, the bottom of the train wraps around the sides of the guideway. Magnets on the bottom of the guideway are positioned to attract the opposite poles in the wrapped section on the train. This pulls the train a few centimeters off the ground into a floating position, this is electromagnetic suspension.

To propel the trains, like poles repel and push it forward. Opposite poles attract the magnets and pull the train forward. The propulsion system is powered by alternating current power. Electrifying the propulsion system generates a magnetic field that pull the train from the front and push the train from the back forward.

Maglevs are much faster than traditional railroad trains. They can travel at speeds up to 603 km/hr (374 mph). They also have better longevity than the traditional, because they do not have as much wear and tear from the contact of the wheel and track. They are also much safer because it is so hard to derail maglevs, due to the strong magnetic pull. In addition, the maglevs are more energy efficient because they do not lose energy from friction.