MAGLEV: THE DOUBLE BENEFITS OF HIGH-TC SUPERCONDUCTORS AND ITS DEVELOPMENT AS AN AEROSPACE TECHNOLOGY

The potential for magnetically levitated (MAGLEV) vehicles is discussed as a means of both inter-city travel and a technology option to relieve the growing problem of air traffic congestion. A brief summary is presented of the two primary maglev concepts: (1) the attractive-force, electromagnetic system (EMS) and (2) the repulsive-force, electrodynamic system (EDS), and continues with a discussion of the advantages, potential for reduced costs and higher reliability, that the newly-discovered, high-temperature superconductors offer for EDS maglev vehicles. A summary of the current status of world wide maglev research is presented, followed by a discussion of the resurgence of US interest in maglev. An analysis of air-traffic congestion suggests that maglev can substitute for short-to-medium distance air travel. By promoting maglev as an airline technology, airlines can retain their familiar hub-and-spoke systems with maglevs an integral part of the spoke portion. A preliminary analysis suggests that maglev capital costs are likely to be comparable to those of interstate highways, and use of maglevs can delay the need for new aiprort and construction. For each short-to-medium flight diverted to maglev, an airline can substitute a longer flight. The short-haul flights use an inordinate amount of fuel, which is a major component of airline operating costs. Maglev energy consumption would be significantly less and would not have the emissions associated with petroleum fuel. Finally, passengers should benefit from maglev technology: travel options will be extended, delays will be reduced, and costs for inter-city travel will be reduced.