maglev

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High-speed surface transport using the repellent force of superconductive magnets (see superconductivity) to propel and support, for example, a train above a track.

Technical trials on a maglev train track began in Japan in the 1970s, and a speed of 500 kph/310 mph was reached, with a cruising altitude of 10 cm/4 in. The train was levitated by electromagnets and forward thrust was provided by linear motors aboard the cars, propelling the train along a reaction plate.

Numerous similar systems have been built and tested, but they have proved so expensive that the only commercial maglev railway operating today is a 30-km/20-mi link between central Shanghai, China, and the cityseverals airport, which carries passengers at an average speed of 250 kph/150 mph.

The ‘Sun of May’ was added in 1818. The blue bands are a shade known as ‘celeste’, said to be the colour of the sky which inspired Argentine revolutionary Manuel Belgrano before battle. Effective date: 16 August 1985. >>