PROPELLING PASSENGERS FASTER THAN A SPEEDING BULLET

Magnetic levitation, both for local and intercity services, is surveyed. Two local shuttle services--at Birmingham, England, and in West Berlin--are complete. The technology for faster maglev trains for intercity service has been researched in many countries and is in an advanced stage in West Germany and Japan. The article gives the advantages of maglev, explaining how the two basic concepts, electrodynamic suspension (EDS), work. Compatible propulsion systems include linear synchronous motors (EDS or EMS) or linear induction motors (EMS). The German-developed Transrapid system now is operating as a 31.5-km test facility at Emsland with speeds up to 300 kph. Japanese National Railways has its EDS test facility with vehicles operating up to 240 kph; Japan Airlines has tested an EMS system which it regards as best suited for airport access which is the goal of its development. There are also details of work done in the U.S., Canada and other nations.