SAFETY OF HIGH SPEED MAGNETIC LEVITATION TRANSPORTATION SYSTEMS: COMPARISON OF U.S. AND FOREIGN SAFETY REQUIREMENTS FOR APPLICATION TO U.S. MAGLEV SYSTEMS

This report presents the results of a systematic review of the safety requirements selected for the German Transrapid\nelectromagnetic (EMS) type maglev system to determine their applicability and completeness with respect to the\nconstruction and operation of maglev systems in the United States.\nThe German safety requirements for high-speed maglev systems are documented in the High-Speed Maglev Trains Safety\nRequirements. Reaelwerk Maanetschnellbahnen-Sicherheitstechnische Anforderunaen (RU MSB), Railroad Construction and\nTraffic Regulations (EBO). and the draft Maglev Construction and Operation Regulation (draft MB0). A major focus of\nthis report is the evaluation of German Standards Institute standards (DINs) cited in the RW MSB.\nA review of the RW MSB, the EBO, and the draft HBO safety requirements, as they relate to seven major maglev system\nfunctional areas has been performed. These requtrements have been compared and assessed to identify similarities to and\ndifferences from equivalent U.S. and international transportation-related regulations, standards, specifications, and/or\nguidelines, and certain general industrial requirements. Unique aspects of the U.S. operating environment have also\nbeen considered.\nFindings are presented regarding proposed safety requirements for the construction and operation of high-speed maglev\nsystems in the United States. These findings are intended to assist FRA in establishing safety requirements for U.S.\nmaglev systems.\n