Energy storage and alternatives to improve train voltage on a mass transit system

Technical Report · Sat Apr 01 04:00:00 EST 1995

OSTI ID:48613

Gordon, S P; Rorke, W S

The wide separation of substations in the Bay Area Rapid Transit system`s transbay tunnel contributes to voltage sag when power demand is high. In the future, expansions to the system will exacerbate this problem by increasing traffic density. Typically, this situation is remedied through the installation of additional substations to increase the system`s power capacity. We have evaluated the efficacy of several alternatives to this approach - specifically, installation of an 8 megajoule energy storage system, modification of the existing substations, or reduction of the resistance of the running rails or the third rail. To support this analysis, we have developed a simple model of the traction power system in the tunnel. We have concluded that the storage system does not have sufficient capacity to deal with the expected voltage sags; in this application, the alternatives present more effective solutions. We have also investigated the potential impact of these system upgrades on expected future capital outlays by BART for traction power infrastructure additions. We have found that rail or substation upgrades may reduce the need for additional substations. These upgrades may also be effective on other parts of the BART system and on other traction power systems.

• Research Organization: Sandia National Labs., Albuquerque, NM (United States)
• Sponsoring Organization: USDOE, Washington, DC (United States)
• DOE Contract Number: AC04-94AL85000
• OSTI ID: 48613
• Report Number(s): SAND--95-8222; ON: DE95010344
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

25 ENERGY STORAGE
33 ADVANCED PROPULSION SYSTEMS
DIAGRAMS
ENERGY STORAGE
FUNCTIONAL MODELS
MASS TRANSIT SYSTEMS
POWER DEMAND
TRAINS
VOLTAGE DROP