Magnetic Field Test on an Electromagnetic Turnout Prototype System for High-Tc Superconducting Maglev

Due to the strong magnetic force between segments of the permanent magnet guideway (PMG), the unmovable electromagnetic turnout becomes one of the most possible choices for high-temperature superconducting (HTS) maglev systems. Meanwhile, it has advantages of quicker response and smaller volume compared with mechanical turnout. A complete turnout system is vital for further evaluating feasibility. Based on the previous studies in ASCLab of Southwest Jiaotong University, a complete electromagnetic turnout prototype system is introduced in this article, which consists of two electromagnets, a Halbach type PMG, a control system, and a maglev vehicle model with a single-domain YBaCuO cylindrical bulk superconductor. In order to guarantee the stable running of vehicle at the turnout area, electromagnets are necessary to provide a similar magnetic field compared with the normal Halbach PMG. Based on the system, the measurement on the magnetic field was done and indicates that the electromagnet could replace permanent magnets of guideway to create a similar magnetic field distribution. The magnetic field experiment on this prototype system further certifies the applicability of the Halbach electromagnetic turnout. For future HTS maglev transportation, the electromagnetic turnout could be widely used in low-speed application such as railway station, switchyard, and laboratory.