In Belarus, there has been carried out the tests of the eddy current retarder. It is a device based on permanent magnets that will complement the braking system of the string transport and allow for speed control on difficult sections of road.
If, for example, a model of the string transport approaches a passenger station too quickly, the eddy current retarder will automatically reduce the vehicle's speed to avoid an accident.
According to engineer Denis Bautkin, the tests are needed to check the performance of the eddy current retarder against the design parameters. Practical tests have confirmed that the device fully performs its function.
This system has several advantages:
‒ The eddy current retarder needs no electricity. If, for example, the vehicle loses power, it will still be able to slow down.
‒ The eddy current retarder is silent. In this device, there is no physical contact between the elements of the system, which usually results in loud noises.
‒ The eddy current retarder lasts a long time. It does not need any friction elements, which wear out quickly. Whereas permanent magnets have a service life of more than 25 years.
Find out how the tests were carried out on the official website of the string transport company developer.