The operation of a single-sided linear induction motor with squirrel-cage and solid-steel reaction rails

Two test programs have been conducted to evaluate the performance of a single-sided linear induction motor with a squirrel-cage reaction rail and with a solid steel reaction rail. A 1.73 m long 6- pole stator interacted with the rails mounted on the rim of a 7.6 m diameter wheel. A 64-channel data acquisition system allowed tests to be performed over a wide range of operating conditions at speeds up to 20m/sec. Typical test results which compare and contrast the mechanical, electrical and magnetic behaviour of the SLIM's are presented. The test data is being used to assess the SLIM as an integrated suspension/ propulsion system and for other transportation applications.