Design, Fabrication, and Operating Test of the Prototype HTS Electromagnet for EMS-Based Maglev

The prototype high-T_c superconducting electromagnet (HTS-EM) for high-speed EMS Maglev was successfully demonstrated in EMS system up to the vehicle running speed of 500 km/h. The EM was designed to interface with the existing propulsion system used in the German high-speed Maglev. The rating levitation force of the EM was designed to correspond to the weight of the EM at a 20 mm levitation gap. Electromagnetic forces were simulated and compared with the test results in order to verify the design feasibility of the HTS-EM. Operating tests revealed that the HTS-EM was fully operational in zero-power control mode. However, the operating current of the HTS coil was affected by the control current when the guideway disturbance occurred. The design feasibility and operability of the HTS-EM was verified in the study.