Delivering an Autotransformer-based Traction Power Solution on an Existing Electrified Operational Railway -- the UK Experience

The West Coast Main Line (WCML) is one of the main arterial routes in the United Kingdom (UK) that runs from London in England to Glasgow in Scotland. Over the past eight years, the route has been subject to a number of up-grades aimed at simplifying the passage and timetabling of trains and increasing the transit speed between major stations. One of the impacts of meeting the aspirations for increased speed and increased volumes of traffic has been the need to increase the overall traction power capacity and availability. In order to address this impact, an autotransformer based solution is being introduced onto the route. This solution provides for power delivery at 50kV rather than the conventional 25kV power delivery in the UK. This paper describes the specific technical solutions adopted in the UK for both the Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) and the feeding substations and the paper considers the specific challenges posed in the UK when designing and implementing the enhancement on an existing operational railway whilst ensuring that the existing electrification systems remain in operation. This paper provides a high level comparison of the UK solutions with those adopted in the US on the Northeast Corridor Project and reveals some of the challenges that still remain in terms of introducing the UK system into final operational service.

• Availability:
  • Find a library where document is available. Order URL: http://worldcat.org/isbn/1931594236
• Corporate Authors:

  American Public Transportation Association

  1666 K Street, NW, Suite 1100
  Washington, DC  United States  20006
• Authors:
  • Barburton, Keith
  • Case, Steve
  • Doughty, John
  • Worwood, Mark
• Conference:
  • Investing Today for a Brighter Tomorrow. The 2006 Rail Conference
  • Date: 2006-6-11 to 2006-6-14
• Publication Date: 2006

Language

• English

Media Info

• Media Type: Print
• Features: Figures;
• Pagination: 11p
• Monograph Title: Investing Today for a Brighter Tomorrow. Proceedings of the 2006 Rail Conference

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Autotransformers; Commuter service; Corridors; Electric railroads; Overhead utility lines; Rail transit; Railroad commuter service; Railroad transportation; Railroad vehicle operations
• Identifier Terms: West Coast Main Line
• Uncontrolled Terms: Traction power
• Geographic Terms: United Kingdom
• Subject Areas: Passenger Transportation; Public Transportation; Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 01033670
• Record Type: Publication
• ISBN: 1931594236
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Sep 29 2006 10:37AM