Evacuated Tube Corridor Lab: Choked Flow, Maglev Power and Energy per Passenger-km

What is Choked Flow?

Choked flow occurs when a fluid (in this case, air) reaches the speed of sound at a constriction or nozzle exit. This phenomenon limits further increases in mass flow rate despite continued pressure reduction.

In an evacuated tube corridor, understanding choked flow is crucial for optimizing pod performance and ensuring efficient operation.

Choked Flow Dynamics

When the flow reaches Mach 1 (the speed of sound), it creates a shock wave that stops further acceleration. This is known as the Kantrowitz limit, beyond which no amount of pressure reduction can increase the mass flow rate.

To avoid choked flow, engineers must design the tube with appropriate dimensions and ensure that the pod's velocity does not approach the speed of sound in the vacuum.

Maglev Power Systems

Magnetic levitation (maglev) systems use electromagnetic forces to suspend, guide, and propel vehicles without contact between the vehicle and track.

In evacuated tube corridors, maglev technology is essential for achieving high speeds with minimal friction.

Energy per Passenger-km

The energy consumption of an evacuated tube corridor system depends on various factors including pod mass, speed, acceleration, and the efficiency of the propulsion and braking systems.

Efficient operation aims to minimize energy use while maximizing passenger throughput.

Frequently asked questions

Try it live

Everything above runs in your browser — open Evacuated Tube Corridor Lab: Choked Flow, Maglev Power and Energy per Passenger-km and change the parameters while it is running. Nothing is installed, nothing is uploaded, the whole model lives in one tab.