How China’s record-breaking maglev train silenced ‘tunnel boom’

Chinese engineers have solved the most significant challenge faced by the ultra high speed maglev trains.

The trains usually experience a “tunnel boom” that happens when a train leaves the tunnel at high speed. 

The new technology clears the path for the rollout of China’s 600km/h maglev prototype that aims at transforming long-distance travel at high speed.

When a train reaches a speed of 500km/h, the compressed air in the tunnel exits creating a shockwaves that are so powerful they can rattle windows, disturb wildlife, and even damage infrastructure.

But researchers have now developed a 100-meter “soundproofing buffer” that will be installed at the entrances of tunnels that vents trapped air working like a gun silencer.

As a result, shockwaves can be reduced by 96%.

Engineers explained the technology as “The porous structure of the buffers, combined with coatings on the tunnel body, allows air to escape gradually instead of exploding outward.”

The new maglev developed by state-owned CRRC floats 10mm above its track with the help of electromagnetic forces that remove wheel friction and allow unprecedented speeds.

White travelling through it, passengers report a near-silent ride, noticing only a subtle hum from the electromagnets.

With the help of this recent development, the travel times will be highly slashed. For instance, the travel time between Beijing and Shanghai will be reduced to just 2.5 hours from 4.5 hours. This matches the travel time of a domestic flight but at an economical price tag (¥600 vs. ¥1,200).

Another advantage of this technology is its minimal carbon emissions compared to flight operations.

Besides China, Japan is also working on the development of maglev. Japan’s Chuo Shinkansen maglev (505 km/h) aims to link Tokyo and Osaka in one hour and seven minutes compared to the previous 2.5 hours. However, it will be launched in 2027.

As China has solved the biggest problem of the tunnel boom, the recently developed maglevs can redefine intercity travel offering airline speeds with rail affordability and sustainability.