Development of a Small-Scale Superconducting LSM Using Gd-Ba-Cu-O High-Temperature Superconducting Wire

In this paper, a 600-km/h-class high-speed train with wheel-rail support and a linear synchronous motor (LSM) propulsion system is being considered. Prior to the development of superconducting LSM for propulsion of 600-km/h-class high-speed trains, preperformance validation through a small-scale prototype is required. Therefore, a small-scale 7-kW-class superconducting air-core-type LSM prototype was designed, one that includes a superconducting magnet with two poles. High-temperature superconducting wire of the Gd-Ba-Cu-O series was used for the magnet. Next, the various characteristics of the designed model were estimated through a numerical approach, with the finite element method. Finally, a small-scale superconducting LSM prototype was produced and installed in a bogie on a 10-m track. A performance test of the superconducting magnet and a no-load induced voltage and thrust measurement test of the small-scale superconducting LSM were completed. The effectiveness of the proposed superconducting LSM design techniques and design model was verified.