Recent progress by JNR on Maglev

An overview is given of the Japanese National Railways (JNR) Maglev system, which uses superconducting magnet levitation and linear synchronous motor (LSM) propulsion. The progress made has included a speed of 517 km/h reached by experimental vehicle ML500, a three-car test run by the MLU001 vehicle, manned test runs, and test runs with aberrations purposely introduced into the guideway. A maximum speed of 352 km/h was achieved for the three-car train. After noting guideway and power supply facility components, the MLU001 and MLU002, the discussion centers on the vehicle body, carriages, superconducting magnets, and helium liquifier and refrigerator units.<
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