Brazil installs composite air train in preparation for world cup

With a body built entirely of composites, the Aeromovel improves public transportation in an environmentally friendly way.

Helping people move around town quickly, efficiently, cost-effectively, and with less pollution is always important in large metropolitan areas. It becomes even more important — and a bigger challenge — when anticipating a large influx of people for a special event.

As Brazil prepares for the 2014 World Cup, the city of Porto Alegre has inaugurated the country’s first automated, air-propulsion passenger transport system. The elevated rail line provides quick, easy-access for commuters and visitors between the Metro Airport Tube Station and Terminal 1 at the International Salgado Filho Airport. The city estimates that the 1km line, which takes about 90 seconds with maximum speed of 65 km/h, will transport as many as 10,000 passengers per day.

Based on a unique, patented Brazilian technology, the Aeromovel uses propulsion from air pressure over the rails to move the lightweight vehicle forward. The air fans are powered by electricity and offer a low-energy-cost, zero-emission alternative for public transportation. Even noise pollution is reduced with the soundproofed fans.

A composite sandwich body construction including Diabs Divinycell foam ,using an infusion system with self-extinguishing resin, was used for lightest and safest design.

As demand continues to increase for lighter vehicles that help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Porto Alegre’s Aeromovel is only the beginning.