Experimental Studies of Maglev Aerodynamics

A high speed moving track test system was designed and built for the testing of magnetically levitated vehicle (Maglev) models in the Virginia Tech Stability Wind Tunnel and aerodynamic tests were conducted on a vehicle configuration provided by NASA, Northrop-Grumman, and the Department of Transportation. The moving track test system was configured to match wind speeds up to 150 mph and to extend a sufficient distance upstream and downstream of the test vehicle model to provide a uniform flow field at the model nose and to simulate proper closure of the flowfield at the rear of the model. Extensive flowfield testing around the track system confirmed its capability to properly simulate the flow around the high speed tracked vehicle. The selected Maglev model was tested with the moving track system and aerodynamic forces and moments were measured. Hot wire anemometer surveys were used to examine the flowfield behind the model and the turbulence levels and transition location on the vehicle nose. Testing included direct measurement of skin friction at selected locations on the model. Separate tests were conducted with the track system removed from the tunnel to determine the effect of the track on the vehicle's aerodynamic behavior. Flow visualization tests were also conducted to verify the nature of the flowfield found in the velocity surveys. The resulting data will provide a much needed database for use in the design of future Maglev systems and for comparison with computer analyses