Assessment of coal-fueled locomotives
During the last decade there have been considerable activities in the development of a coal-fueled locomotive. Organizations of various kinds (locomotive manufacturers and others) have developed or are developing various concepts. Advanced microprocessing technology and improved materials of construction, heat engine technology, and coal fuel processing all are converging to make a coal-fueled locomotive economically possible. It is the conclusion of this assessment that coal-fueled locomotives using indirect-fired heat engines and direct-fired heat engines with onboard fuel conversion could be available in the near term (within 5 years). However, these systems are only marginally attractive from an economic viewpoint and have some operational disadvantages. Current low petroleum fuel prices may deter this concept from being commercialized. Coal-fueled locomotives using direct-fired heat engines offer high payoffs even with modest gains in diesel fuel oil prices over coal prices. Intensive R and D is presently being carried out on the technical issues facing this approach. It is likely that proof of concept can be achieved during the next 5 to 7 years. 67 refs., 26 figs., 43 tabs.
- Research Organization:
- USDOE Morgantown Energy Technology Center, WV
- OSTI ID:
- 5403595
- Report Number(s):
- DOE/METC-86/6044; ON: DE86006620
- Resource Relation:
- Other Information: Portions of this document are illegible in microfiche products. Original copy available until stock is exhausted
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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