Module 2 : Systems under technological importance

Lecture 16: Superconducting Materials

 

Advantages

• No need of initial energy in case of magnets for low speeds

• One litre ofLiquid nitrogen costs less than one litre of mineral water

• Onboard magnets and large margin between rail and train enable highest recorded train speeds (581 km/h) and heavy load capacity.Successful operations using high temperature superconductors in its onboard magnets, cooled with inexpensive liquid nitrogen

• Magnetic fields inside and outside the vehicle are insignificant; proven, commercially available technology that can attain very high speeds (500 km/h); no wheels or secondary propulsion system needed

• Free of friction as it is “Levitating”