The integration of AC drive technology to Amtrak's passenger locomotives

Abstract

During 1983 Amtrak experienced very heavy DC traction motor use both in the diesel-electric and in the electric powered locomotive fleets. As a result, Amtrak's executives decided to obtain first hand experience with AC traction which, at that time, was being proposed as the answer to many traction motor problems. The history and operating experience with Amtrak's AC drive locomotives from both ABB and EMD/Siemens are discussed. The system impact of AC drives and introduction of suitable redundancy techniques for reliability improvements of head end power generation are discussed. The movement towards strategic maintenance concepts with the diagnostic fault data becoming available, and the anticipated future performance requirements for high-speed diesels, electric locomotives, and trainsets are also covered.<>