Abstract
The paper analyses the alternatives for the power supply of a Hyperloop type railway transport. The particular case of the technology of the Spanish company ZELEROS was studied. Based on previous technical specifications related to both the first prototype and a commercial system, different options were analyzed. We selected the use of a linear motor driven by a single power electronic converter, a distribution scheme comprising different sections along the acceleration area of the track, and an energy storage system based on supercapacitors for the energy supply. The power/energy ratio and the cycle capability are the reasons to become a feasible and competitive solution. A preliminary design methodology for the energy storage requirements is presented in the paper. Once the type of linear motor was selected, the power supply scheme was presented, based on a motor-side power electronic converter and a DC/DC converter which connects to the energy storage devices. An additional low power grid-tie converter for the recharge of the energy storage system was also used. Different track sections were defined, connected to the power electronic converter through corresponding switches, being supplied sequentially when the capsule presence is detected along the track. The particular characteristics of this application, with relatively short traction track area, as well as the high energy recuperation ratio due to the low losses, make more suitable the use of energy storage systems as the source of power supply than the direct connection to the grid.
Highlights
Historical References and ConceptIn a global world, transport, both passengers and cargo, has become a strategic sector for the economy
The main contribution of this paper beyond the state of the art is to provide an alternative solution of power supply for Hyperloop railways, based on an energy storage system supplying a linear motor during the acceleration of the pods
A methodology to define and calculate the preliminary complete power supply system is included in the paper
Summary
Transport, both passengers and cargo, has become a strategic sector for the economy. Different European policies have established a reduction of them in two thirds by 2050 if compared with 1990 levels in order to meet the long-term 60% greenhouse gas emission reduction target as set out in the 2011 Transport White Paper. An acceleration area, between 5 and 10 km, where the capsule is accelerated with the help of a linear motor installed along the rail. It presents a methodology to define and calculate the complete power supply system It combines the design of the linear motor, the energy source and power electronics definition, and the distribution of the power supply along the acceleration area. The CIEMAT Institute, the author of this work, is collaborating with the Spanish company ZELEROS in the development of the acceleration device and the power supply of the technological solution proposed
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
