A linear induction motor (LIM) is an alternating current (AC), asynchronous linear motor that works by the same general principles as other induction motors but is typically designed to directly produce motion in a straight line. Characteristically, linear induction motors have a finite primary or secondary length, which generates end-effects, whereas a conventional induction motor is arranged in an endless loop.
The Birmingham Airport Maglev shuttle
AirTrain JFK trains propel themselves using an aluminium induction strip placed between the rails.
A diagram of EMALS' induction motor
LIMTV Linear Induction Motor Test Vehicle in 1973
An induction motor or asynchronous motor is an AC electric motor in which the electric current in the rotor that produces torque is obtained by electromagnetic induction from the magnetic field of the stator winding. An induction motor therefore needs no electrical connections to the rotor. An induction motor's rotor can be either wound type or squirrel-cage type.
Three-phase totally-enclosed fan-cooled (TEFC) induction motor with end cover on the left, and without end cover to show cooling fan on the right. In TEFC motors, interior heat losses are dissipated indirectly through enclosure fins, mostly by forced air convection.
Cutaway view through stator of TEFC induction motor, showing rotor with internal air circulation vanes. Many such motors have a symmetric armature, and the frame may be reversed to place the electrical connection box (not shown) on the opposite side.
A model of Nikola Tesla's first induction motor at the Tesla Museum in Belgrade, Serbia
Squirrel-cage rotor construction, showing only the center three laminations