Railway electrification is of paramount importance to modern rail and urban transport systems. Contemporary railways require smart and energy-efficient traction power supply products and solutions to ensure safe, reliable, and environmentally sustainable operations.
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The construction of new railway projects and the increasing modernisation/upgrade of existing lines are accelerating investments in rail electrification, which can not only provide faster journey times and enhanced capacity but also help the industry achieve decarbonisation.
Finding the best railway electrification, traction and power supply solutions
Railway Technology has listed some of the leading railway traction power supply equipment and solutions providers, based on its intel, insights, and decades-long experience in the sector.
The list includes some of the turnkey contractors having proven competence in the design, engineering, manufacturing, installation, testing and commissioning of direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC) traction systems for large and complex railway electrification infrastructure projects.
The list also includes specialists in the design and manufacturing of high-quality catenary wires, overhead line equipment, third rail solutions, power supply and control systems, substations, inter-car power connectors, and a wide range of electromechanical components for railway applications.
The information contained within the download document is useful for railway operators, project managers, procurement executives, operations managers, consultants, engineers, technicians, and any other individual involved in railway operations, infrastructure engineering and maintenance.
The download contains detailed information on railway power supply equipment and solution providers and their product and service lines, alongside contact details to aid your purchasing or hiring decision.
Types of railway traction power supply systems, equipment, and solutions
Different railway systems such as metros, tramways, mainlines and high-speed railways require different types of reliable and fit-for-purpose equipment to ensure a stable and efficient supply of traction power.
Railway electrification and power supply systems and equipment include, but are not limited to:
- Overhead catenary systems (OCS) and pantographs
- Catenary wires, including auxiliary cables, contact wires, feeder cables, and dropper wires
- Cantilevers, tensioning devices, and other feeding system components including disconnectors and insulators
- Ground-level power supply systems and third rail products including side and bottom contact shoes
- AC, DC and synchronous traction motors for electric multiple units (EMUs), and electric and diesel-electric locomotives
- Traction substations, rectifiers, AC-DC converters, and DC-AC inverters
- Air and gas-insulated railway switchgears, and static frequency convertors
- AC and DC circuit breakers
- Power protection and control systems, including station control system (SCS) for traction power supply
- Inter-car railway couplers and electrical connectors, and braking, crowbar and snubber resistors, master controllers and power plugs for trains
- Ground-based static charging systems for trams
- Rail batteries and battery chargers, and
- Power switching, distribution and energy monitoring solutions for railway stations and buildings
FAQs
What is railway electrification and why is it important?
Railway electrification refers to the process of powering trains using electricity through overhead lines or third rail systems. It reduces reliance on fossil fuels, lowers carbon emissions, and increases energy efficiency. Electrification also improves train performance, allowing for faster, more reliable services, and plays a vital role in modernising rail infrastructure while supporting decarbonisation efforts in the transport sector.
How does overhead catenary system (OCS) work in railway electrification?
An overhead catenary system (OCS) supplies electric power to trains through a series of overhead wires and contact systems. The system consists of contact wires, dropper wires, and supporting structures like cantilevers that maintain the correct tension and height for effective power transfer to the train’s pantograph. The pantograph, mounted on the train, collects the electricity and powers the train’s motors. OCS is widely used in both high-speed and conventional railways for its efficiency in transmitting electrical power over long distances.
What are the benefits of third rail electrification systems?
Third rail systems, commonly used in metro and urban rail systems, deliver electrical power via a rail placed alongside the track. Trains collect the electricity through a contact shoe that slides along the third rail. This method is ideal for densely populated areas where overhead wires might not be feasible. Third rail systems offer a lower profile and reduced visual impact, but they are typically used for lower-speed services due to power limitations.
How do traction substations contribute to railway electrification?
Traction substations are critical components that convert high-voltage power from the national grid into a form suitable for railway use, typically lower-voltage DC or AC power. These substations are strategically located along railway lines and supply electricity to trains through overhead lines or third rails. Traction substations ensure consistent power delivery, monitor electrical flow, and protect against faults, contributing to the safe and reliable operation of electrified railways.
Who benefits from railway electrification projects?
Railway electrification projects benefit a wide range of stakeholders, including passengers, railway operators, and environmental advocates. Passengers enjoy faster, more reliable services, while operators benefit from lower operating costs and reduced reliance on diesel fuels. Environmental groups support electrification because it significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality by shifting away from fossil-fuel-based propulsion systems.