Electromagnetic levitation is commonly associated with transport
applications, principally 'MagLev' trains. However, the technology has
many potential applications across engineering, particularly where there
is a requirement to improve efficiency of electrical products and
devices, propelled by the desire to minimise frictional and bearing
losses and ohmic losses in conductors, which are the major causes of
machine inefficiency.
Fundamentals of Electromagnetic Levitation: Engineering sustainability
through efficiency is an introductory text encompassing the enabling
electrical technologies associated with magnetic levitation,
electrostatic suspension, diamagnetic levitation and superconduction,
high frequency magnetic levitation, high frequency electric suspension,
and levitation using microwave pressure. It aims to make aspiring and
existing electrical engineers aware of the efficiency implications of
frictionless machines and hence, of how important this may be in a
post-fossil fuel world in which the energy available from renewable
sources is strictly limited.