Numerical Investigation of EDS Maglev Systems in Terms of Performance and Cost for Different PMs-Aluminum Rail Arrangements

Permanent-magnet electro-dynamic suspension (PMs-EDS) maglev systems are shaping the future of modern transport by providing high-speed, energy-efficient, and sustainable transport solutions. In this study, numerical simulations were performed to determine the optimum geometrical parameters of aluminum rail and permanent magnet arrangements for EDS systems. For that, the aluminum rail and permanent magnet combinations were investigated, and then the same simulations were repeated by creating cavities in the aluminum rails for cost efficiency. The highest levitation-to-drag ratio (LDR) was achieved with magnet arrays having a fill factor of 0.4, 20 mm thick aluminum, and an aluminum rail width of 60 mm. Additionally, by creating cavities into the rails, it was calculated that approximately $2.44 million could be saved from the total cost of $17.34 million cost of the 1000 km double-strip aluminum rails, with negligible reduction in the LDR ratio. The findings of this study provide a sustainable and economical transport solution by increasing the cost effectiveness of PMs-EDS maglev systems. The results obtained may pave the way for the development of different types of applications of maglev technology and increase the potential for commercial use of maglev transport systems.