Pulsed linear induction motors for Maglev propulsion

Linear induction and synchronous motors have been the favored approaches to linear propulsion in the Maglev community. Both require variable-frequency-power handling and usually rectifier-inverter power electronics, and they are earmarked by a low-power factor. One alternative is a less-conventional pulsed linear induction motor (PLIM). Advantages of PLIM are that it eliminates low-power factor transfer, has smaller end-winding overhang, and used simple electronics. The paper examines various embodiments of this approach with rectangular guideway coils and considers the tradeoffs in using full-wave and half-wave excitation pulses.