Power Superconductor Linear Induction Motors power the magnetically - levitated 12.5 Ton people mover at Old Dominion University, Norfolk Virginia.
This is the USA's first passenger Maglev system installed in Year 2002 and is designed to transport students between various parts of the ODU Campus. The PSA supplied LIMs can provide up to 800 kilowatts of propulsion power and have a 120 mph upper speed. There are no wheels on the vehicle, it is levitated at 20 mm by magnetic suspension. The track is elevated at 20 ft. above ground and uses a light weight aluminum and concrete structure pioneered by American Maglev Technology, the system builders.
Other participants in the Maglev project include: Dominion Virginia Power, Lockheed Martin and Old Dominion University. The existing 4000 ft. track, 3 station and Maglev vehicle were built for $ 14 Million with the State of Virginia contributing $ 7 Million to the project. The system is being planned to extend to other regions of Norfolk, VA.
