The world of transportation is on the brink of a revolutionary change with the completion of the Hyperloop EHC Phase A test track in Vianen, Netherlands. On September 9, a completion ceremony was held, attended by approximately 300 people, including prominent figures such as European Parliament member Jens Gieseke, Prince Constantijn van Oranje of the Netherlands, and Bertrand van Ee, CEO of Hardt. This event signifies a crucial step forward in the development of high-speed transportation technology that could reshape the way people and goods move across continents.
At the heart of this groundbreaking project is POSCO, a South Korean steel giant that has become the first company in the world to supply dedicated steel for the European Hyperloop Center test track. POSCO's involvement in the project was comprehensive, spanning from the design phase to production. The company's Steel Research Institute, Steel Solution Research Institute, and Marketing Division collaborated closely to deliver a product that meets the unique demands of Hyperloop technology. For the Phase A test track, POSCO supplied 352 metric tons of PosLoop 355 steel, a specialized material that is 27% lighter than the existing Hardt design.
The PosLoop 355 steel is not just lighter; it also boasts impressive technical specifications. According to POSCO, this world-first specialized steel for Hyperloop tubes has a vibration damping capability that is 1.7 times higher than that of general steel. Additionally, it possesses excellent seismic performance, a crucial factor for the safety and stability of the Hyperloop system. These characteristics make PosLoop 355 an ideal material for the demanding requirements of high-speed vacuum tube transportation.
The newly completed Hyperloop test track (Phase A) is a marvel of engineering, featuring a diameter of 2.5 meters and stretching 450 meters in length. This initial phase will focus on testing critical aspects of Hyperloop technology, including acceleration and deceleration during test runs, with vehicles reaching peak speeds of 100 km/h. The track will also be used to test precise control of branching sections and evaluate passenger safety measures. These tests are essential steps towards the realization of a fully functional Hyperloop system, which promises to revolutionize intercity travel with its high speeds and energy efficiency.
Looking ahead, the potential for Hyperloop technology is immense. Commercial Hyperloop tubes are expected to require about 2,000 metric tons of steel per kilometer. Projections suggest that by 2050, Europe alone could see the construction of 25,000 kilometers of Hyperloop tracks, representing a significant market opportunity for steel producers like POSCO. The company is already planning its involvement in the next phase of the project, with the Phase B section (2.7 km) expected to be constructed by 2027. This longer track will allow for testing of speeds up to 700 km/h and further safety performance checks, bringing the dream of commercial Hyperloop travel closer to reality.
