FEASIBILITY STUDY OF A 15,000-KVA CAPACITOR-ASSISTED POWER UNIT FOR INDUCTION MOTOR PROPULSION

This report describes results of a technical study to identify and describe feasible linear induction motor propulsion system (LIMPS) alternatives for attaining desired maximum vehicle speed within a given guideway length. The study deals with an original concept of two identical LIMPS modules and whether this concept remains the most effective means to produce thrust for a 300-mph vehicle, as well as 11 other candidate concepts, all subject to the fixed design constraints of limited vehicle space, 8-kV electrical power supply, and fixed vehicle, guideway, and reaction rail interfaces. The following factors were among those identified as having significant influence on the comparative results: 1. Thrust degradation at high speeds (end effects) has the same result on performance as LIM operation at a lower slip value. Since the maximum frequency of the voltage applied to the LIM is limited by the present SC design, a longer LIM pole pitch is the only practical method of reducing the impact of end effects. 2. A change in the effective LIM operating point shifts both real and reactive power demands. 3. The power ratings of new, recently developed thyristors make possible the design and manufacture of a single dc-link converter that will supply all the real power required by the LIM, resulting in substantially lower converter weight and volume. 4. Static capacitors can replace part of the power factor correcting function of the synchronous condenser at a fraction of the cost.

• Supplemental Notes:
  • Prepared for U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Railroad Administration, Office of Research and Development, Washington, D.C.
• Corporate Authors:

  AiResearch Manufacturing Company

  2525 West 190th Street
  Torrance, CA  United States  90509
• Authors:
  • Powell, R B
  • Kaman, G P
• Publication Date: 1977-1

Media Info

• Features: Appendices; Figures; Tables;
• Pagination: 173 p.

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Acceleration (Mechanics); Electric power conditioning; Electric power supply; Intelligent transportation systems; Linear induction motors; Magnetic levitation vehicles; Propulsion; Tracked vehicles; Vehicle power plants
• Uncontrolled Terms: Propulsion systems
• Old TRIS Terms: Advanced systems; Wayside power
• Subject Areas: Energy; Operations and Traffic Management; Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00170286
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Federal Railroad Administration
• Report/Paper Numbers: FRA/ORD-77/43 Study Rpt.
• Files: TRIS, USDOT
• Created Date: Feb 16 1978 12:00AM