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Ac traction gets on track

Journal Article · · Mechanical Engineering
OSTI ID:103637
This article describes inverter-based ac traction systems which give freight locomotives greater adhesion, pulling power, and braking capacity. In the 1940s, dc traction replaced the steam engine as a source of train propulsion, and it has ruled the freight transportation industry ever since. But now, high-performance ac-traction systems, with their unprecedented levels of pulling power and adhesion, are becoming increasingly common on America`s freight railroads. In thousands of miles of demonstration tests, today`s ac-traction systems have outperformed traditional dc-motor driven systems. Major railroad companies are convinced enough of the benefits of ac traction to have integrated it into their freight locomotives.
OSTI ID:
103637
Journal Information:
Mechanical Engineering, Journal Name: Mechanical Engineering Journal Issue: 9 Vol. 117; ISSN MEENAH; ISSN 0025-6501
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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