China set world record with new super-speed ‘electromagnetic lever’ test, state media says
- State broadcaster airs footage of 1-tonne object being shot off at speed of 1,030km/h in propulsion test at new facility
- Facility seen to benefit maglev technology, fighter jet launch and propulsion systems, and even space missions
In a recent operational test, the device accelerated more than 1 tonne of weight to a speed of 1,030km/h (640 miles per hour), setting a new world record, state broadcaster CCTV reported.
Footage aired of the experiment showed a large object in a shape similar to a bullet train being shot off and moving speedily along a special track.
“Five key technologies involved in the test, such as high-thrust high-speed linear motors and 100-megawatt wide-frequency inverter power supply, have also reached world-leading level,” the report said.
It said the facility in Jinan, in China’s eastern Shandong province, was set up for the testing of aerial or super-speed ground equipment, as it would provide a powerful, fast responsive, accurate and controllable method to the developers.