Principle of Operation
Levitation: Maglev trains rely on the principle of magnetic repulsion and attraction. There are electromagnets on the train and on the guideway. When the appropriate electric current is passed through these electromagnets, the magnetic forces between them make the train body levitate above the guideway. For example, if the magnets on the bottom of the train have the same pole as the magnets on the guideway facing them, they will repel each other, lifting the train up. Usually, the train can levitate at a certain distance from the track, which can range from a few millimeters to several centimeters.
Propulsion: In addition to levitation, the train also uses magnetic forces for propulsion. By changing the magnetic fields in a specific sequence along the guideway, the train can be pushed forward or pulled forward. It’s similar to how when you move a magnet near a metal object in a particular pattern, you can make the object move in the direction you want.
Which type of permanent magnet is mainly used in magnetic levitation train?
Why Neodymium Iron Boron（NdFeB) magnet?
Neodymium Iron Boron (NdFeB) permanent magnets are the most widely used permanent magnet materials in maglev trains.
High Energy Product: NdFeB has an extremely high energy product, which means it can generate a strong magnetic field in a small volume, thus providing sufficient levitation and thrust.
High Coercivity: NdFeB has a high coercivity, which means it is not easily demagnetized and can maintain stable magnetic properties even in high temperature or strong magnetic field environments.
Relatively Low Cost: Compared with other rare earth permanent magnet materials, NdFeB has a relatively low manufacturing cost.