Electric locomotive and show various component.

1.0. RATIONALE

Electricity is used in every walk of life whether it is home, office, industry or farm. It
is being used for lighting, heating, cooking, air conditioning, operating
machines/computers, welding. traction, irrigation. Due to power crisis, economical
utilization of electrical energy and energy conservation is an essential aspect. Every
diploma electrical engineer therefore should know to operate and maintain main
electrical utilities for their efficient operations. Essential theoretical and practical
knowledge will be achieved by this course. Keeping the above objectives in view,
besides giving him basic knowledge in the topics concerned, attempts have been
made to ensure that the knowledge acquired is applied in various fields as per his job
requirements.

➢ COMPETENCY

The aim of this course is to help the student to attain the following industry identified
competency through various teaching learning experiences:

 Maintain different types of electrical utilities and systems.

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2.0 AIMS/BENEFITS OF THE MICRO-PROJECT

Aim:- Prepare a report on electric locomotive and show various component power
point presentation.

Benefits:-

 Environmental Benefits: They produce fewer emissions, contributing to

cleaner air, and can be powered by renewable energy sources, reducing their
carbon footprint.
 Cost-Effectiveness: Electric locomotives generally have lower operating and
maintenance costs compared to diesel engines, despite the higher initial
investment.
 Performance: They provide high acceleration and speed with better reliability
and fewer moving parts compared to diesel locomotives.
 Operational Flexibility: Electric locomotives are quieter, reduce noise
pollution, and can start and stop faster, improving efficiency in both urban and
rural areas.
 Sustainability: Using electricity instead of fossil fuels reduces dependence on
oil and supports global sustainability goals by decreasing overall carbon
emissions.

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3.0 COURSE OUTCOMES ACHIEVED.

The theory, practical experiences and relevant soft skills associated with this course
are to be taught and implemented, so that the student demonstrates the following
industry oriented

COs associated with the above mentioned competency:

a) Maintain the functioning of different types of lamps and fittings.

b) Maintain different electric heating and welding equipment.

c) Maintain different electric drives and elevators.

d) Use different electric traction systems.

e) Use equipment for economic operation.

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4.0 LITERATURE REVIEW

An electric locomotive is a locomotive powered by electricity from overhead lines,

a third rail or on-board energy storage such as a battery or a super capacitor.
Locomotives with on-board fuelled prime movers, such as diesel engines or gas
turbines, are classed as diesel–electric or gas turbine–electric and not as electric
locomotives, because the electric generator/motor combination serves only as a power
transmission system.

Electric locomotives benefit from the high efficiency of electric motors, often above
90% (not including the inefficiency of generating the electricity). Additional
efficiency can be gained from regenerative braking, which allows kinetic energy to be
recovered during braking to put power back on the line. Newer electric locomotives
use AC motor-inverter drive systems that provide for regenerative braking. Electric
locomotives are quiet compared to diesel locomotives since there is no engine and
exhaust noise and less mechanical noise. The lack of reciprocating parts means
electric locomotives are easier on the track, reducing track maintenance. Power plant
capacity is far greater than any individual locomotive uses, so electric locomotives
can have a higher power output than diesel locomotives and they can produce even
higher short-term surge power for fast acceleration. Electric locomotives are ideal
for commuter rail service with frequent stops. Electric locomotives are used on
freight routes with consistently high traffic volumes, or in areas with advanced rail
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networks. Power plants, even if they burn fossil fuels, are far cleaner than mobile
sources such as locomotive engines. The power can also come from low-
carbon or renewable sources, including geothermal power, hydroelectric
power, biomass, solar power, nuclear power and wind turbines.[1] Electric
locomotives usually cost 20% less than diesel locomotives, their maintenance costs
are 25–35% lower, and cost up to 50% less to run.

The chief disadvantage of electrification is the high cost for infrastructure: overhead
lines or third rail, substations, and control systems. The impact of this varies
depending on local laws and regulations. For example, public policy in the U.S.
interferes with electrification: higher property taxes are imposed on privately owned
rail facilities if they are electrified. The EPA regulates exhaust emissions on
locomotive and marine engines, similar to regulations on car & freight truck
emissions, in order to limit the amount of carbon monoxide, unburnt hydrocarbons,
nitric oxides, and soot output from these mobile power sources. Because railroad
infrastructure is privately owned in the U.S., railroads are unwilling to make the
necessary investments for electrification. In Europe and elsewhere, railway networks
are considered part of the national transport infrastructure, just like roads, highways
and waterways, so are often financed by the state. Operators of the rolling stock pay
fees according to rail use. This makes possible the large investments required for the
technically and, in the long-term, also economically advantageous electrification.

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 Electric locomotive and show various component.

 Block Diagram of an AC Electric Locomotive

Block diagram of an ac electric locomotive is depicted in Fig. It collects current from

overhead equipment (OHE) by means of a pantograph collector which usually carries
a sliding shoe for contact with the overhead trolley wire. The locomotive essentially
consists of (i) air circuit breaker (ii) on-load tap changer (iii) step-down transformer
(iv) converting machinery (v) smoothing chokes and (vi) dc traction motors.

 Pantograph (or Third Rail Connection):

The pantograph is a key component that collects electrical power from the
overhead wires, enabling the locomotive to operate. It consists of a spring-loaded
frame with contact strips that slide along the wires to maintain a steady flow of
electricity. In some systems, electric locomotives use a third rail instead of an
overhead wire to deliver power. This component is critical in ensuring a
continuous, uninterrupted power supply for the locomotive.

 Traction Motor:

The traction motor is the heart of the electric locomotive. It converts the electrical
energy supplied through the pantograph or third rail into mechanical energy that
drives the wheels. These motors are designed to provide high torque and speed,
allowing the locomotive to accelerate quickly and maintain high speeds
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efficiently. In modern systems, traction motors are often paired with advanced
controls for better performance and energy management.

 Power Converter:

The power converter adjusts the electrical current from the power source (either
AC or DC) to a suitable form for use by the traction motor. This component is
essential for transforming the electrical power into the correct voltage and
frequency to ensure optimal motor performance. Power converters allow electric
locomotives to operate efficiently across varying power supply systems.

 Transformer:

A transformer in an electric locomotive steps up or steps down the electrical

voltage coming from the external supply to match the requirements of the
locomotive’s components. The transformer ensures that the correct amount of
electricity is delivered to the traction motor and other electrical systems,
maintaining the overall safety and efficiency of the locomotive.

 Braking System:

The braking system in an electric locomotive typically includes both traditional

friction brakes and modern regenerative braking systems. Regenerative braking
allows the locomotive to capture kinetic energy generated during braking and
convert it back into electrical energy. This energy is either stored or sent back to
the grid, significantly improving energy efficiency and reducing wear on braking
components. The use of regenerative braking helps minimize energy consumption
and enhances the overall sustainability of electric locomotives.

 Cooling System:

The cooling system is crucial for maintaining the proper operating temperature of
the locomotive’s electrical components, especially the traction motor and power
converters. These systems prevent overheating, which could lead to reduced
efficiency or potential failure of critical components. Efficient cooling
mechanisms are particularly important in ensuring that the locomotive can
operate at full capacity during extended periods or in extreme weather conditions.

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 Electric locomotive and show various component.

 Advantages

 An electric locomotive is a type of train powered by electricity, typically

sourced from overhead wires or a third rail.

 Key components include the pantograph, which collects electrical power from
overhead lines; traction motors, which convert electrical energy into
mechanical power to move the wheels; and a transformer that adjusts the
voltage to the appropriate level for operation.

 The rectifier or converter changes AC to DC for the traction motors, while

control systems regulate speed, braking, and other functions.

 Braking systems often feature regenerative braking, allowing the locomotive

to recover energy when slowing down.

 Cooling systems ensure that the electrical components operate at optimal

temperatures, and bogies support the locomotive and provide stability.

 Electric locomotives offer several advantages over their diesel counterparts.

 They produce zero emissions during operation, making them environmentally

friendly, especially when powered by renewable energy sources.

 These locomotives are highly efficient, converting more energy into

mechanical power and benefiting from regenerative braking, which recycles
energy back into the grid.

 Operating costs are lower due to cheaper electricity and reduced maintenance
needs, while their quieter operation and better acceleration make them ideal
for high-speed and urban services.

 Additionally, electric locomotives are more reliable in challenging terrains,

such as hilly areas, and contribute to reducing air pollution and carbon
emissions, making them a key part of sustainable transport solutions.

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 Electric locomotive and show various component.

 Disadvantage

 While electric locomotives offer numerous advantages, they also have some
disadvantages.

 One major drawback is the dependence on infrastructure; they require a

continuous supply of electricity through either overhead catenary lines or a
third rail, limiting their operational flexibility, especially in areas where such
infrastructure is absent.

 This makes them less suitable for regions where rail networks are not
electrified.

 Additionally, the high initial cost of constructing the electrification

infrastructure, such as installing overhead lines or building third rail systems,
can be expensive and time-consuming.

 Electric locomotives also require access to reliable and consistent power

sources, and if the grid is unreliable or powered by fossil fuels, the
environmental benefits may be reduced.

 In certain geographical areas, weather conditions such as heavy snow, ice, or

storms can damage the overhead power lines, disrupting service.

 Furthermore, electric locomotives tend to be heavier than diesel engines due to

the added electrical components, which can lead to more wear and tear on
tracks and higher maintenance costs.

 Lastly, limited range can be a concern for long-distance routes where

electrification may not be available for the entire journey, requiring trains to
switch to diesel power or face operational challenges.

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5.0 ACTUAL METHODOLOGY FOLLOWED

1. First, we search for information on electric locomotive and show

various component.

2. Then we collect the data for our micro-project from the internet.

3. The current in a series circuit goes through every component in the circuit.

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6.0 Resources required

Sr. No. Name of Specification Qty.

Resource/material
1. Internet service [Link],10 1.
Mbps speed
2. Reference books Tech Knowledge 1.

 Action Plan(Sequence and required for major activity)

Sr .No Details of activity Planned Planned Name of

Start date Finished Date Responsible Team
member

1. Prepare Report on it 15/03/2025 13/04/2025 Purva, Nikhil,

Ganesh, Pratik.

Names of Team Members with Roll No.

1) Purva R. Thale 36
2) Pratik R. Kshirsagar 41
3) Nikhil B. Diwate 44
4) Ganesh M. Fandade 45

([Link])
(Subject teacher)

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7.0 OUTPUT OF PROJECT

The output of this project on electric locomotives is a comprehensive analysis of the

key components, operational benefits, and challenges associated with electric-
powered trains. The project not only outlines the technical aspects of electric
locomotives but also highlights the advantages they offer over traditional diesel
locomotives. Below is a summary of the project output.

8.0 SKILL DEVELOPED

1. Leadership.

2. Team Management.

3. Critical Thinking.

4. Task Management.

5. Cost saving.

6. Time management.

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9.0 APPLICATION OF THE MICRO-PROJECT

The micro-project on electric locomotives focuses on understanding the various

components that contribute to the functionality, performance, and efficiency of
electric-powered trains. The application of this project spans across both technical
exploration and real-world solutions for sustainable rail transportation.

10. REFERENCES

 [Link]
 [Link]
 [Link]
locomotive?srsltid=AfmBOoqfX7d0u0-
GkgCA2XLIOBfTgtkgh6eVysuNboSHoVFYNcd0hukQ

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