NEW ELECTRIC LOCOMOTIVES

Two new U. S. electric locomotives, designed for heavy-duty freight service, have the most modern thyristor control and a number of novel features. In terms of tractive effort and its wide range of horsepower, one model is believed to be the most powerful locomotive in the world. This article covers the major features of these new electric locomotives and also provides some comparisons with modern-day diesel-electric locomotives in the U. S. The GM-6C model is rated at nominally 6000 diesel equivalent hp, and utilizes a Co-Co truck arrangement. The GM-10B model is rated at nominally 10,000 diesel equivalent hp, and uses an unusual Bo-Bo-Bo truck arrangement, new for the U. S. For each locomotive, a description is given of the carbody, trucks, traction motors, auxiliary equipment and power transmission and controls. Performances are reported. Maintenance costs are claimed to be 64% that of a diesel electric locomotive. Power is picked up by pantograph.

• Corporate Authors:

  American Society of Mechanical Engineers

  Two Park Avenue
  New York, NY  United States  10016-5990
• Authors:
  • Ephraim Jr, M
  • Quinn, H E
• Publication Date: 1978-1

Media Info

• Features: References;
• Pagination: p. 43-49
• Serial:
  • ASME Journal of Mechanical Engineering
  • Volume: 100
  • Issue Number: 1
  • Publisher: American Society of Mechanical Engineers

Subject/Index Terms

• TRT Terms: Diesel electric locomotives; Electric locomotives; Electric power conditioning; Locomotives; Maintenance management; Motors; Suspension systems; Traction; Trucks; Vehicle design
• Candidate Terms: Traction drives
• Uncontrolled Terms: Maintenance costs
• Geographic Terms: United States
• Old TRIS Terms: Locomotive design; Locomotives (Electric); Six axle locomotives
• Subject Areas: Design; Motor Carriers; Railroads; Vehicles and Equipment;

Filing Info

• Accession Number: 00178491
• Record Type: Publication
• Source Agency: Engineering Index
• Files: TRIS
• Created Date: Jul 19 1978 12:00AM