Get a first-hand experience of the SCMaglev ‘super conducting magnetic levitation’ technology developed to power Japan’s maglev trains during an interactive workshop led by staff from Central Japan Railway Company’s London office. 

Developed by Central Japan Railway Company, the SCMaglev system uses superconducting electromagnets to levitate the train up off the track and propel the elevated train ahead. Levitating around 10 cm above the guideway, the absence of wheel contact allows for higher speeds than conventional high-speed rail. 

Currently under construction, the eagerly anticipated Chūō Shinkansen will use SCMaglev technology to connect the cities of Tokyo and Nagoya, 286 km (187 miles) apart, in just 40 minutes and run at speeds up to 500 kph (311 mph). 

During the session, participants can discover the remarkable physics and engineering behind magnetic levitation while interacting with hands-on models demonstrating SCMaglev technology in action. 

This workshop is part of a series of events held in partnership with Central Japan Railway Company celebrating the 150th anniversary of rail in Japan. It follows a talk on regional rail innovation and the new hybrid train series HC85 (view recording).