Rapid charging concept for hybrid heavy haul locomotive consists

Integration of a hybrid locomotive in a train consist is expected to reduce NOx emissions, reduce fuel consumption and improve energy efficiency by utilising a rechargeable energy storage system. In order to make the hybrid locomotive option a suitable alternative, it is necessary to investigate the operational needs of a hybrid locomotive, such as the State of Charge (SoC) of the Energy Storage System (ESS) on typical train and track configurations, methods of charging and time taken for charging, etc. The analysis of hybrid traction with its application to heavy haul application tasks is a very challenging problem and it needs some new ideas to be evaluated prior to proceeding with an actual change in locomotive design and train field testing due to the high development and testing costs involved. A method has been developed to test evaluate the practical aspects of a wayside rapid charging station for a hybrid locomotive. The method integrates multiple disciplines including mechanical, electrical and computer engineering. The method has been demonstrated with a typical example of a heavy haul train operation hauled by dieselelectric and hybrid locomotives. Detailed models of diesel-electric and hybrid locomotives including multibody and traction power system components have been used in the investigation. The feasibility of the application of wayside charging stations for a hybrid locomotive option has been investigated. The practical aspect of the wayside rapid charging station has been discussed.