Superconducting Sheets for Train Support and Traction : Finite Element Analysis

This paper presents a particular application of superconducting for magnetic levitation that uses the "Meissner effect". The study has been performed by a two-dimensional Finite Element (FE) model made up of more superconducting material sheets placed in the proximity of a linear stator. The forces on the sheets have been calculated by means of non-linear magnetostatic analysis with the "method of virtual works". The parametric model has allowed to carry out systematic analysis that is a preliminary step to understand the phenomenon. The intensity of pressures, both levitation and traction, are widely compatible with transportation applications.