Static and dynamic force characteristics of paramagnetic shields in linear synchronous motors

A small-scale prototype of a linear synchronous motor has been designed, built and tested. Present studies include the investigation of the shielding properties of a paramagnetic material as well as its use as a stabiliser during asynchronous operation. It has been found through finite element methods that a 3 mm copper shield provides the greatest static inductive force. Aluminium has been used however, as it is a more economically viable material than copper. Dynamic tests have shown that a paramagnetic shield provides a damping action during transients