http://www.mygdg.org/Images/690485_blog.jpg

What is a Monorail?

A monorail is a rail-based system that utilizes magnetic levitation (maglev) to move a train on a single track (hence, MONO-rail).  By utilizing the power of magnetic levitation, monorail systems allow a fast, smooth and quiet mode of transportation. One of the only components that slows down this system is the drag produced from air.  There are a few different types of monorails that are used today, one type runs above the rail and the other runs below the rail.  Monorails are efficient due to the utilization of magnetic fields. Below are pictures and diagrams that show the components of monorails and what makes them work.





http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/7316719.stm







http://www.magnet.fsu.edu/education/tutorials/magnetacademy/superconductivity101/maglev.html



An diagram showing a Maglev vacuum:



http://www.impactlab.com/2008/06/27/trans-atlantic-supersonic-maglev-vacuum-tube-train/

HOME

HISTORY

REFERENCES