Mobile HTS Bulk Devices as Enabling Ton-Force Technology for Maglev Trains

Abstract

The status of bulk superconductor magnetic levitation (Maglev) train technique is evaluated. Existing industrial magnetic trains (electromagnetic, electrodynamic) point to key performance factors as load, speed, efficiency, and environmental protection. On that basis, a feasibility analysis of trapped-field train demonstrators should be attained. HTS bulk trapped field experiments at lower temperatures up to 6.8 T were performed and the HTS mass production capability is indicated. For increasing the transport load, a new generation of robust and mobile LN 2 vacuum cryostat type is developed. The new device is designed and scaled up according to the technique and practical experience of a smaller cryostat with 250 kg load and 30-40 h operation time. A test vehicle levitated by four cryostats on a magnetic guideway is presented. It is capable of levitating more than 1 ton. The new cryostat consists of 30 tiles 3-seed YBCO bulks, it levitates up to 0.5 ton at 10 mm distance, and with 5 l LN 2 stored it achieves an operation time of up to 2 days. We report about the integration of YBCO bulks, thermal insulation, LN 2 refilling, and mechanical construction. With the new development, we obtain evidence to manage higher train forces of several tons.