China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation (CASIC) has achieved a groundbreaking milestone in high-speed transportation, as its latest maglev train sets a new record of 623 kilometers per hour (387 miles per hour) during testing. The achievement propels CASIC’s ambition to develop a train that can break the sound barrier, surpassing the speeds of conventional airplanes.
Revolutionizing Maglev Technology:
CASIC’s magnetically levitated (maglev) train achieved this remarkable speed in October 2023, marking a significant advancement in superconducting maglev vehicles. The test, conducted on a full-scale 2-kilometer track within a low-vacuum tube, showcased stable levitation, signaling a breakthrough for the technology.
Precision Engineering for Minimal Friction:
To attain such high speeds, CASIC implemented meticulous engineering, including a test track with an impressive flatness tolerance of 0.01 inch (0.3 millimeters). The 20-foot-wide tunnel housing the track also boasts a geometric size error of less than 0.1 inch (2 mm), ensuring minimal friction for a smooth operation.
Future Plans and Ambitions:
CASIC plans to extend the track to 37 miles (60 kilometers) in the next phase of testing, aiming to push the maglev train to speeds of up to 621 miles per hour (1,000 kilometers per hour). If successful, this would make the maglev train faster than most passenger jets, transforming the landscape of high-speed transportation.
Major Step Forward for Maglev Project:
The successful completion of the initial testing phase represents a significant stride for CASIC’s maglev project. Key aspects, including safety checks and the transition from levitation to motion, were seamlessly integrated into the testing process, showcasing the reliability and potential of the technology.
