Problems and prospects for development of vacuum magnetic levitation transport in Russia

• Main Authors: Vakulenko, S. P., Kurenkov, P. V., Davydov, A. M., Sadchikova, V. A., Astafiev, A. V., Yakushev, N. V.
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• Subjects: Cargo; High speed; Magnetic levitation; Principles; Problem solving; Transportation corridors; Weather
• ISSN: 0094-243X; 1551-7616
• DOI: 10.1063/5.0167521

Transport technology based on the vacuum magnetic levitation principle of operation (VMLT - vacuum magnetic levitation transport) deserves great attention. This idea, and it was a Russian idea, is more than 100 years old, however, due to historical circumstances, it was forgotten. Currently, it is again offered to use the possibilities of this mode of transport. Perspectives of VMLT use are described. The cargo is transported in capsules in a vacuum tube on the magnetic levitation principle. When transporting in a vacuum, it is possible to transport goods at speeds above 6,000 kilometers per hour. VMLT has undeniable advantages over other modes of transport - it is a high speed of movement, energy efficiency, environmental friendliness, noiselessness. In addition, this transport is isolated from the external environment, which is also an advantage for the weather conditions of our country. Creation of a high-speed line for the delivery of goods, firstly, will link together all regions of the country, their remoteness will not be a deterrent to development. Secondly, this line can be used to deliver goods in international transport corridors, switching to an ultra-high-speed intercontinental network, and here Russia’s economic power will increase. The issues of the interaction of VMLT with other modes of transport through the loading and unloading of goods in specialized terminals, as well as the delivery of cargo in cargo capsules using other modes of transport - road, rail, sea and river, as well as an atmospheric magnetic levitation line directly to the consignee, excluding intermediate cargo operations, are considered. Ways of technical and technological implementation of the ideas of VMLT are considered. Having identified the main directions for studying and solving problems associated with the introduction of VMLT, at the first stages of the program implementation it is offered to involve young scientists and senior students in the study of problematic issues at the stage of graduation projects and master’s theses, competitive works. Schemes of separate points for VMLT are offered by analogy with railway transport, a brief technology of their work is described.