Superconducting Levitation: Applications to Bearings and Magnetic Transportation by Francis C. Moon (1994, Hardcover)

Key Details
Author:	Francis C. Moon
Language:	English
Publisher:	Wiley-Interscience
Format:	Hardcover
ISBN-10:	0471559253
ISBN-13:	9780471559252

Size
Height:	9.8 in
Width:	6.5 in
Thickness:	1 in
Weight:	22.4 oz

Publisher's Note
Presents the fundamental principles governing levitation of material bodies by magnetic fields without too much formal theory. Defines the technology of magnetic bearings, especially those based on superconductivity, and demonstrates the key roles that magnetics, mechanics and dynamics play in the complete understanding of magnetic levitation and its bearings. Features extensive figures and photos of Mag-Lev devices and summarizes recent U.S. research studies in an effort to regain the lead in Mag-Lev technologies.

The dream of "antigrav" technology has haunted several generations of scientists and science fiction buffs alike, and while magnetic levitation (Mag-Lev) does not conform precisely to these visions, it does offer one of the most exciting capabilities demonstrated by superconducting materials. Yet, even among otherwise well-informed scientists and engineers, there is a general lack of understanding of the principles and technological requirements of Mag-Lev. This book discusses the basic physics and technology of active and passive superconducting bearings and Mag-Lev transportation. Special emphasis is given to the new high-temperature superconductors discovered in 1987 and to an understanding of the interplay of magnetics, mechanics, and dynamics necessary for Mag-Lev transportation. Author Francis C. Moon takes an empirical approach, relying more on experiment and phenomenology than formal theory. The presentation includes extensive figures and photos of Mag-Lev devices, including the German and Japanese Mag-Lev trains, as well as diagrams of proposed U.S. Mag-Lev designs. It is also the first book to summarize results of recent U.S. research studies aimed at regaining the lead in Mag-Lev technologies. The only book of its kind, Superconducting Levitation is intended to inform and inspire physicists, mechanical engineers, electrical engineers, and students. Professor Moon believes that a broader spectrum of research is required for a greater understanding of the physics of Mag-Lev. He also wants to encourage the creation of new devices based on the use of magnetic devices and superconductors.