Floating concrete

Figure: Graftlab

Vision of an overhead urban traffic system in Berlin: Max Bögl (TSB) commissioned Graft Architects to draw up a design study for a magnetic levitation train of the future

Figure: Graftlab

Low space requirement with high capacity: among the greatest advantages of the magnetic levitation train is the comparative ease with which it can be integrated into the existing traffic mix of traditionally developed cities, such as Berlin

Figure: Graftlab

The modular character of the system allows the planners to adapt the stations without much effort to the respective architectural situation and the specific requirements on site

Figure: Graftlab

More usable space: The slender supports create urban space that continues to be available for various uses

Figure: Graftlab

Modular prefabrication ex works makes it possible to deliver precise variants for the respective requirements on site

Figure: Graftlab

As an additional benefit, the routes are also suitable for installation of solar elements that can deliver up to 43 % of the energy needed for the operation of the magnetic levitation train

Figure: Graftlab

Where appropriate, route greening can also have a positive effect on the microclimate of the urban space

Figure: Graftlab

Knee joint principle: The support pillars are designed to provide the trackway with stable support in all of the required inclination angles without need for additional adaptations

Figure: Graftlab

By combining differently aligned supports, even tight radii and gradients are no problem

Figure: Graftlab

Figure: Graft

The principle of serial concrete formwork is also used in the design of the stations and translated into a system of modular shells that can form different sizes and geometries for stopping stations in series

Figure: Graft

Thomas Willemeit, Graft Founding Partner

Figure: Graft

Sebastian Maßmann,
Senior Project Lead

Figure: Graft

With new, modular concrete production techniques that enable high-precision ex-works at low production, transport, and erection costs, magnetic levitation train technology is being touted as a robust competitor to buses, trams, subways and commuter trains. Graft Architecture explored the potentials of the system in a design study with the manufacturer – and the following is a research report.

New infrastructure that can deliver high capacity and reliability is often impossible to integrate, especially in urban areas. Underground train networks are so expensive that they are rarely built. Trams must share the available space for traffic with cars, which often prevents rapid transport.

Magnetic levitation trains, with their quiet, vibration-free, and emission-free operation, on the other hand, offer great advantages for updating urban infrastructure: they travel fast and quietly on a narrow concrete track and produce a minimal footprint. Their slender supports and point foundations...