There is a wide range of electric traction systems that can be found throughout the world. Most of these traction systems are built according to the type of railway as well as the location where it is designed to operate. There are many more installations seen today in electric traction power than we saw many years ago.
In order for traction power system to be complete, it needs to utilize a motor as well as complete the full traction power circuit. The electric traction supply system ensures that every return system gets grounded to a running rail and that the circuit can be completed.
As was introducing a power system that can manage the train power, return systems also need to be introduced to complete the circuit. Traction power systems consist of the AC or DC power, regulation devices, shoes or connections to the third rail and the return system.
Return systems and power systems complete the circuit sourcing the energy out of the various items in the train system. The power circuit on the train is completed by connecting the brushes which rub along the axle ends. The wheels take over running along the rails and all of these systems are wired into the substation to supply power.
These systems can be modified for overhead train power systems, multi-voltage trains as well as to provide transformer boosts in order to maximize power systems throughout the train. Locomotives can be equipped to operate several different voltages and with power options that are made to suit the region.
If you would like to learn more about traction power systems on locomotives be sure to contact our company today to learn more about the systems that we can offer to you.
This post was written by Justin Tidd, Director at Swartz Engineering. For nearly a half a century, Swartz Engineering has been at the forefront of industry safety. They are a family-owned company specializing in power distribution for the electrical industry. They are the leading manufacturer of Type 76 DC relays. It is the most widely accepted protective overcurrent device used in the transit industry today.
