Recent from talks
Nothing was collected or created yet.
Railway electrification
View on Wikipedia
Railway electrification is the use of electric power for the propulsion of rail transport. Electric railways use either electric locomotives (hauling passengers or freight in separate cars), electric multiple units (passenger cars with their own motors) or both. Electricity is typically generated in large and relatively efficient generating stations, transmitted to the railway network and distributed to the trains. Some electric railways have their own dedicated generating stations and transmission lines, but most purchase power from an electric utility. The railway usually provides its own distribution lines, switches, and transformers.
Power is supplied to moving trains with a (nearly) continuous conductor running along the track that usually takes one of two forms: an overhead line, suspended from poles or towers along the track or from structure or tunnel ceilings and contacted by a pantograph, or a third rail mounted at track level and contacted by a sliding "pickup shoe". Both overhead wire and third-rail systems usually use the running rails as the return conductor, but some systems use a separate fourth rail for this purpose.
In comparison to the principal alternative, the diesel engine, electric railways offer substantially better energy efficiency, lower emissions, and lower operating costs. Electric locomotives are also usually quieter, more powerful, and more responsive and reliable than diesel locomotives. They have no local emissions, an important advantage in tunnels and urban areas. Some electric traction systems provide regenerative braking that turns the train's kinetic energy back into electricity and returns it to the supply system to be used by other trains or the general utility grid. While diesel locomotives burn petroleum products, electricity can be generated from diverse sources, including renewable energy.[1] Historically, concerns of resource independence have played a role in the decision to electrify railway lines. The landlocked Swiss confederation which almost completely lacks oil or coal deposits but has plentiful hydropower electrified its network in part in reaction to supply issues during both World Wars.[2][3]
Disadvantages of electric traction include: high capital costs that may be uneconomic on lightly trafficked routes, a relative lack of flexibility (since electric trains need third rails or overhead wires), and a vulnerability to power interruptions.[1] Electro-diesel locomotives and electro-diesel multiple units mitigate these problems somewhat as they are capable of running on diesel power during an outage or on non-electrified routes.
Different regions may use different supply voltages and frequencies, complicating through service and requiring greater complexity of locomotive power. There used to be a historical concern for double-stack rail transport regarding clearances with overhead lines[1] but it is no longer universally true as of 2022[update], with both Indian Railways[4] and China Railway[5][6][7] regularly operating electric double-stack cargo trains under overhead lines.
Railway electrification has constantly increased in the past decades, and as of 2022, electrified tracks account for nearly one-third of total tracks globally.[8][9]
History
[edit]Railway electrification is the development of powering trains and locomotives using electricity instead of diesel or steam power. The history of railway electrification dates back to the late 19th century when the first electric tramways were introduced in cities like Berlin, London, and New York City.
In 1881, the first permanent railway electrification in the world was the Gross-Lichterfelde Tramway in Berlin, Germany.[10] Overhead line electrification was first applied successfully by Frank Sprague in Richmond, Virginia in 1887-1888, and led to the electrification of hundreds of additional street railway systems by the early 1890s.[11][12] The first electrification of a mainline railway was the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad's Baltimore Belt Line in the United States in 1895–96.
The early electrification of railways used direct current (DC) power systems, which were limited in terms of the distance they could transmit power. However, in the early 20th century, alternating current (AC) power systems were developed, which allowed for more efficient power transmission over longer distances.
In the 1920s and 1930s, many countries worldwide began to electrify their railways. In Europe, Switzerland, Sweden, France, Germany and Italy were among the early adopters of railway electrification. In the United States, the New York, New Haven and Hartford Railroad was one of the first major railways to be electrified.
Railway electrification continued to expand throughout the 20th century, with technological improvements and the development of high-speed trains and commuters. Today, many countries have extensive electrified railway networks with 375000 km of standard lines in the world, including China, India, Japan, France, Germany, and the United Kingdom. Electrification is seen as a more sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to diesel or steam power and is an important part of many countries' transportation infrastructure.
Classification
[edit]
Electrification systems are classified by three main parameters:
- Voltage
- Current
- Direct current (DC)
- Alternating current (AC)
- Contact system
The selection of an electrification system is based on the economics of energy supply, maintenance, and capital cost compared to the revenue obtained for freight and passenger traffic. Different systems are used for urban and intercity areas; some electric locomotives can switch to different supply voltages to allow flexibility in operation.
Standardised voltages
[edit]Six of the most commonly used voltages have been selected for European and international standardisation. Some of these are independent of the contact system used, so that, for example, 750 V DC may be used with either third rail or overhead lines.
There are many other voltage systems used for railway electrification systems around the world, and the list of railway electrification systems covers both standard voltage and non-standard voltage systems.
The permissible range of voltages allowed for the standardised voltages is as stated in standards BS EN 50163[13] and IEC 60850.[14] These take into account the number of trains drawing current and their distance from the substation.
| Electrification system | Voltage | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Minimum temporary |
Minimum permanent |
Nominal | Maximum permanent |
Maximum temporary | |
| 600 V DC | 400 V | 400 V | 600 V | 720 V | 800 V |
| 750 V DC | 500 V | 500 V | 750 V | 900 V | 1,000 V |
| 1,500 V DC | 1,000 V | 1,000 V | 1,500 V | 1,800 V | 1,950 V |
| 3 kV DC | 2 kV | 2 kV | 3 kV | 3.6 kV | 3.9 kV |
| 15 kV AC, 16.7 Hz | 11 kV | 12 kV | 15 kV | 17.25 kV | 18 kV |
| 25 kV AC, 50 Hz (EN 50163) and 60 Hz (IEC 60850) |
17.5 kV | 19 kV | 25 kV | 27.5 kV | 29 kV |
Direct current
[edit]Overhead lines
[edit]
1,500 V DC is used in Japan, Indonesia, Hong Kong (parts), Ireland, Australia (parts), France (also using 25 kV 50 Hz AC), the Netherlands, New Zealand (Wellington), Singapore (on the North East MRT line), the United States (Chicago area on the Metra Electric district and the South Shore Line interurban line and Link light rail in Seattle, Washington). In Slovakia, there are two narrow-gauge lines in the High Tatras (one a cog railway). In the Netherlands it is used on the main system, alongside 25 kV on the HSL-Zuid and Betuwelijn, and 3,000 V south of Maastricht. In Portugal, it is used in the Cascais Line and in Denmark on the suburban S-train system (1650 V DC).
In the United Kingdom, 1,500 V DC was used in 1954 for the Woodhead trans-Pennine route (now closed); the system used regenerative braking, allowing for transfer of energy between climbing and descending trains on the steep approaches to the tunnel. The system was also used for suburban electrification in East London and Manchester, now converted to 25 kV AC. It is now only used for the Tyne and Wear Metro. In India, 1,500 V DC was the first electrification system launched in 1925 in Mumbai area. Between 2012 and 2016, the electrification was converted to 25 kV 50 Hz, which is the countrywide system.
3 kV DC is used in Belgium, Italy, Spain, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, South Africa, Chile, northern Czechia (being phased out), the former republics of the Soviet Union, and in the Netherlands on a few kilometres between Maastricht and Belgium. It was formerly used by the Milwaukee Road from Harlowton, Montana, to Seattle, across the Continental Divide and including extensive branch and loop lines in Montana, and by the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroad (now New Jersey Transit, converted to 25 kV AC) in the United States, and the Kolkata suburban railway (Bardhaman Main Line) in India, before it was converted to 25 kV 50 Hz.
DC voltages between 600 V and 750 V are used by most tramways and trolleybus networks, as well as some metro systems as the traction motors accept this voltage without the weight of an on-board transformer.[citation needed]
Medium-voltage DC
[edit]Increasing availability of high-voltage semiconductors may allow the use of higher and more efficient DC voltages that heretofore have only been practical with AC.[15]
The use of medium-voltage DC electrification (MVDC) would solve some of the issues associated with standard-frequency AC electrification systems, especially possible supply grid load imbalance and the phase separation between the electrified sections powered from different phases, whereas high voltage would make the transmission more efficient.[16]: 6–7 UIC conducted a case study for the conversion of the Bordeaux-Hendaye railway line (France), currently electrified at 1.5 kV DC, to 9 kV DC and found that the conversion would allow to use less bulky overhead wires (saving €20 million per 100 route-km) and lower the losses (saving 2 GWh per year per 100 route-km; equalling about €150,000 p.a.). The line chosen is one of the lines, totalling 6000 km, that are in need of renewal.[17]
In the 1960s the Soviets experimented with boosting the overhead voltage from 3 to 6 kV. DC rolling stock was equipped with ignitron-based converters to lower the supply voltage to 3 kV. The converters turned out to be unreliable and the experiment was curtailed. In 1970 the Ural Electromechanical Institute of Railway Engineers carried out calculations for railway electrification at 12 kV DC, showing that the equivalent loss levels for a 25 kV AC system could be achieved with DC voltage between 11 and 16 kV. In the 1980s and 1990s 12 kV DC was being tested on the October Railway near Leningrad (now Petersburg). The experiments ended in 1995 due to the end of funding.[18]
Third rail
[edit]
Most electrification systems use overhead wires, but third rail is an option up to 1,500 V. Third rail systems almost exclusively use DC distribution. The use of AC is usually not feasible due to the dimensions of a third rail being physically very large compared with the skin depth that AC penetrates to 0.3 millimetres or 0.012 inches in a steel rail. This effect makes the resistance per unit length unacceptably high compared with the use of DC.[19]
Fourth rail
[edit]
In four-rail systems, the additional rail carries the electrical return that, on third-rail and overhead networks, is provided by the running rails. On the London Underground, a top-contact third rail is beside the track, energized at +420 V DC, and a top-contact fourth rail is located centrally between the running rails at −210 V DC, which combine to provide a traction voltage of 630 V DC. The same system was used for Milan's earliest underground line, Milan Metro's line 1, whose more recent lines use an overhead catenary or a third rail.
The key advantage of the four-rail system is that neither running rail carries any current. This scheme was introduced because of the problems of return currents, intended to be carried by the earthed (grounded) running rail, flowing through the iron tunnel linings instead. This can cause electrolytic damage and even arcing if the tunnel segments are not electrically bonded together. The problem was exacerbated because the return current also had a tendency to flow through nearby iron pipes forming the water and gas mains. Some of these, particularly Victorian mains that predated London's underground railways, were not constructed to carry currents and had no adequate electrical bonding between pipe segments. The four-rail system solves the problem. Although the supply has an artificially created earth point, this connection is derived by using resistors which ensures that stray earth currents are kept to manageable levels. Power-only rails can be mounted on strongly insulating ceramic chairs to minimise current leak, but this is not possible for running rails, which have to be seated on stronger metal chairs to carry the weight of trains. However, elastomeric rubber pads placed between the rails and chairs can now solve part of the problem by insulating the running rails from the current return should there be a leakage through the running rails.
The Expo and Millennium Line of the Vancouver SkyTrain use side-contact fourth-rail systems for their 650 V DC supply. Both are located to the side of the train, as the space between the running rails is occupied by an aluminum plate, as part of stator of the linear induction propulsion system used on the Innovia ART system. While part of the SkyTrain network, the Canada Line does not use this system and instead uses more traditional motors attached to the wheels and third-rail electrification.
Rubber-tyred systems
[edit]
A few lines of the Paris Métro in France operate on a four-rail power system. The trains move on rubber tyres which roll on a pair of narrow roll ways made of steel and, in some places, of concrete. Since the tyres do not conduct the return current, the two guide bars provided outside the running 'roll ways' become, in a sense, a third and fourth rail which each provide 750 V DC, so at least electrically it is a four-rail system. Each wheel set of a powered bogie carries one traction motor. A side sliding (side running) contact shoe picks up the current from the vertical face of each guide bar. The return of each traction motor, as well as each wagon, is effected by one contact shoe each that slide on top of each one of the running rails. This and all other rubber-tyred metros that have a 1,435 mm (4 ft 8+1⁄2 in) standard gauge track between the roll ways operate in the same manner.[20][21]
Alternating current
[edit]Railways and electrical utilities use AC as opposed to DC for the same reason:[22] to use transformers, which require AC, to produce higher voltages.[23] The higher the voltage, the lower the current for the same power (because power is current multiplied by voltage), and power loss is proportional to the current squared. The lower current reduces line loss, thus allowing higher power to be delivered.[24]
As alternating current is used with high voltages, inside the locomotive, a transformer steps the voltage down for use by the traction motors and auxiliary loads.
An early advantage of AC is that the power-wasting resistors used in DC locomotives for speed control were not needed in an AC locomotive: multiple taps on the transformer can supply a range of voltages.[25] Separate low-voltage transformer windings supply lighting and the motors driving auxiliary machinery. More recently, the development of very high power semiconductors has caused the classic DC motor to be largely replaced with the three-phase induction motor fed by a variable frequency drive, a special inverter that varies both frequency and voltage to control motor speed. These drives can run equally well on DC or AC of any frequency, and many modern electric locomotives are designed to handle different supply voltages and frequencies to simplify cross-border operation.
Low-frequency alternating current
[edit]
Five European countries – Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Norway and Sweden – have standardized on 15 kV 16+2⁄3 Hz (the 50 Hz mains frequency divided by three) single-phase AC. On 16 October 1995, Germany, Austria and Switzerland changed from 16+2⁄3 Hz to 16.7 Hz which is no longer exactly one-third of the grid frequency. This solved overheating problems with the rotary converters used to generate some of this power from the grid supply.[26]
In the US, the New York, New Haven, and Hartford Railroad, the Pennsylvania Railroad and the Philadelphia and Reading Railway adopted 11 kV 25 Hz single-phase AC. Parts of the original electrified network still operate at 25 Hz, with voltage boosted to 12 kV, while others were converted to 12.5 or 25 kV 60 Hz.
In the UK, the London, Brighton and South Coast Railway pioneered overhead electrification of its suburban lines in London, London Bridge to Victoria being opened to traffic on 1 December 1909. Victoria to Crystal Palace via Balham and West Norwood opened in May 1911. Peckham Rye to West Norwood opened in June 1912. Further extensions were not made owing to the First World War. Two lines opened in 1925 under the Southern Railway serving Coulsdon North and Sutton railway station. The lines were electrified at 6.7 kV 25 Hz. It was announced in 1926 that all lines were to be converted to DC third rail and the last overhead-powered electric service ran in September 1929.
Standard frequency alternating current
[edit]
1. Supply transformer (center-tapped output)
2. Power supply
3. Overhead line
4. Running rail
5. Feeder line
6. Pantograph
7. Locomotive transformer
8. Overhead line
9. Autotransformer
10. Running rail
AC power is used at 60 Hz in North America (excluding the aforementioned 25 Hz network), Saudi Arabia,[27][28] western Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan; and at 50 Hz in a number of European countries, India, eastern Japan, Russia and Eastern Europe, on high-speed lines in much of Western and Central Europe (including countries that still run conventional railways under DC but not in countries using 16.7 Hz, see above). Most systems like this operate at 25 kV, although 12.5 kV sections exist in the United States, and 20 kV is used on some lines in Japan. On "French system" HSLs, the overhead line and a "sleeper" feeder line each carry 25 kV in relation to the rails, but in opposite phase so they are at 50 kV from each other; autotransformers equalize the tension at regular intervals.[citation needed]
Three-phase alternating current
[edit]
Various railway electrification systems in the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries utilised three-phase, rather than single-phase electric power delivery due to ease of design of both power supply and locomotives. These systems could either use standard network frequency and three power cables, or reduced frequency, which allowed for the return-phase line to be the third rail, rather than an additional overhead wire.[citation needed]
Comparisons
[edit]AC versus DC for mainlines
[edit]This section possibly contains original research. There is a lot of opinion here vs. fact and not many references in support. It needs to be cleaned up (September 2025) |
The majority of modern electrification systems take AC energy from a power grid that is delivered to a locomotive, and within the locomotive, transformed and rectified to a lower DC voltage in preparation for use by traction motors. These motors may either be DC motors which directly use the DC or they may be three-phase AC motors which require further conversion of the DC to variable frequency three-phase AC (using power electronics). Thus both systems are faced with the same task: converting and transporting high-voltage AC from the power grid to low-voltage DC in the locomotive. The difference between AC and DC electrification systems lies in where the AC is converted to DC: at the substation or on the train. Energy efficiency and infrastructure costs determine which of these is used on a network, although this is often fixed due to pre-existing electrification systems.
Both the transmission and conversion of electric energy involve losses: ohmic losses in wires and power electronics, magnetic field losses in transformers and smoothing reactors (inductors).[29] Power conversion for a DC system takes place mainly in a railway substation where large, heavy, and more efficient hardware can be used as compared to an AC system where conversion takes place aboard the locomotive where space is limited and losses are significantly higher.[30] However, the higher voltages used in many AC electrification systems reduce transmission losses over longer distances, allowing for fewer substations or more powerful locomotives to be used. Also, the energy used to blow air to cool transformers, power electronics (including rectifiers), and other conversion hardware must be accounted for.
Standard AC electrification systems use much higher voltages than standard DC systems. One of the advantages of raising the voltage is that, to transmit certain level of power, lower current is necessary (P = V × I). Lowering the current reduces the ohmic losses and allows for less bulky, lighter overhead line equipment and more spacing between traction substations, while maintaining power capacity of the system. On the other hand, the higher voltage requires larger isolation gaps, requiring some elements of infrastructure to be larger. The standard-frequency AC system may introduce imbalance to the supply grid, requiring careful planning and design (as at each substation power is drawn from two out of three phases). The low-frequency AC system may be powered by separate generation and distribution network or a network of converter substations, adding the expense, also low-frequency transformers, used both at the substations and on the rolling stock, are particularly bulky and heavy. The DC system, apart from being limited as to the maximum power that can be transmitted, also can be responsible for electrochemical corrosion due to stray DC currents.[16]: 3
Electric versus diesel
[edit]
Energy efficiency
[edit]Electric trains need not carry the weight of prime movers, transmission and fuel. This is partly offset by the weight of electrical equipment. Regenerative braking returns power to the electrification system so that it may be used elsewhere, by other trains on the same system or returned to the general power grid. This is especially useful in mountainous areas where heavily loaded trains must descend long grades.[31]
Central station electricity can often be generated with higher efficiency than a mobile engine/generator. While the efficiency of power plant generation and diesel locomotive generation are roughly the same in the nominal regime,[32] diesel motors decrease in efficiency in non-nominal regimes at low power[33] while if an electric power plant needs to generate less power it will shut down its least efficient generators, thereby increasing efficiency. The electric train can save energy (as compared to diesel) by regenerative braking and by not needing to consume energy by idling as diesel locomotives do when stopped or coasting. However, electric rolling stock may run cooling blowers when stopped or coasting, thus consuming energy.
Large fossil fuel power stations operate at high efficiency, and can be used for district heating or to produce district cooling, leading to a higher total efficiency.[34][35] Electricity for electric rail systems can also come from renewable energy, nuclear power, or other low-carbon sources, which do not emit pollution or emissions.
Power output
[edit]Electric locomotives may easily be constructed with greater power output than most diesel locomotives. For passenger operation it is possible to provide enough power with diesel engines (see e.g. 'ICE TD') but, at higher speeds, this proves costly and impractical. Therefore, almost all high speed trains are electric. The high power of electric locomotives also gives them the ability to pull freight at higher speed over gradients; in mixed traffic conditions this increases capacity when the time between trains can be decreased. The higher power of electric locomotives and an electrification can also be a cheaper alternative to a new and less steep railway if train weights are to be increased on a system.
On the other hand, electrification may not be suitable for lines with low frequency of traffic, because lower running cost of trains may be outweighed by the high cost of the electrification infrastructure. Therefore, most long-distance lines in developing or sparsely populated countries are not electrified due to relatively low frequency of trains.
Network effect
[edit]Network effects are a large factor with electrification.[citation needed] When converting lines to electric, the connections with other lines must be considered. Some electrifications have subsequently been removed because of the through traffic to non-electrified lines.[citation needed] If through traffic is to have any benefit, time-consuming engine switches must occur to make such connections or expensive dual mode engines must be used. This is mostly an issue for long-distance trips, but many lines come to be dominated by through traffic from long-haul freight trains (usually running coal, ore, or containers to or from ports). In theory, these trains could enjoy dramatic savings through electrification, but it can be too costly to extend electrification to isolated areas, and unless an entire network is electrified, companies often find that they need to continue use of diesel trains even if sections are electrified. The increasing demand for container traffic, which is more efficient when utilizing the double-stack car, also has network effect issues with existing electrifications due to insufficient clearance of overhead electrical lines for these trains, but electrification can be built or modified to have sufficient clearance, at additional cost.
A problem specifically related to electrified lines are gaps in the electrification. Electric vehicles, especially locomotives, lose power when traversing gaps in the supply, such as phase change gaps in overhead systems, and gaps over points in third rail systems. These become a nuisance if the locomotive stops with its collector on a dead gap, in which case there is no power to restart. This is less of a problem in trains consisting of two or more multiple units coupled together, since in that case if the train stops with one collector in a dead gap, another multiple unit can push or pull the disconnected unit until it can again draw power. The same applies to the kind of push-pull trains which have a locomotive at each end. Power gaps can be overcome in single-collector trains by on-board batteries or motor-flywheel-generator systems.[citation needed] In 2014, progress is being made in the use of large capacitors to power electric vehicles between stations, and so avoid the need for overhead wires between those stations.[36]
Maintenance costs
[edit]Maintenance costs of the lines may be increased by electrification, but many systems claim lower costs due to reduced wear-and-tear on the track from lighter rolling stock.[37] There are some additional maintenance costs associated with the electrical equipment around the track, such as power sub-stations and the catenary wire itself, but, if there is sufficient traffic, the reduced track and especially the lower engine maintenance and running costs exceed the costs of this maintenance significantly.
Sparks effect
[edit]Newly electrified lines often show a "sparks effect", whereby electrification in passenger rail systems leads to significant jumps in patronage / revenue.[38] The reasons may include electric trains being seen as more modern and attractive to ride,[39][40] faster, quieter and smoother service,[38] and the fact that electrification often goes hand in hand with a general infrastructure and rolling stock overhaul / replacement, which leads to better service quality (in a way that theoretically could also be achieved by doing similar upgrades yet without electrification). Whatever the causes of the sparks effect, it is well established for numerous routes that have been electrified over decades.[38][39] This also applies when bus routes with diesel buses are replaced by trolleybuses. The overhead wires make the service "visible" even if no bus is running and the existence of the infrastructure gives some long-term expectations of the line being in operation.
Double-stack rail transport
[edit]Due to the height restriction imposed by the overhead wires, double-stacked container trains have been traditionally difficult and rare to operate under electrified lines. However, this limitation is being overcome by railways in India, China and African countries by laying new tracks with increased catenary height.
Such installations are in the Western Dedicated Freight Corridor in India where the wire height is at 7.45 m (24 ft 5 in) to accommodate double-stack container trains without the need of well-wagons.
Advantages
[edit]This section needs additional citations for verification. (February 2023) |
There are a number of advantages including the fact there is no exposure of passengers to exhaust from the locomotive and lower cost of building, running and maintaining locomotives and multiple units. Electric trains have a higher power-to-weight ratio (no onboard fuel tanks), resulting in fewer locomotives, faster acceleration, higher practical limit of power, higher limit of speed, less noise pollution (quieter operation). The faster acceleration clears lines more quickly to run more trains on the track in urban rail uses.[41]
- Reduced power loss at higher altitudes (for power loss see Diesel engine)
- Independence of running costs from fluctuating fuel prices
- Service to underground stations where diesel trains cannot operate for safety reasons
- Reduced environmental pollution, especially in highly populated urban areas, even if electricity is produced by fossil fuels
- Easily accommodates kinetic energy brake reclaim using supercapacitors
- More comfortable ride on multiple units as trains have no underfloor diesel engines
- Somewhat higher energy efficiency [42] in part due to regenerative braking and less power lost when "idling"
- More flexible primary energy source: can use coal, natural gas, nuclear or renewable energy (hydro, solar, wind) as the primary energy source instead of diesel fuel
- If the entire network is electrified, diesel infrastructure such as fueling stations, maintenance yards and indeed the diesel locomotive fleet can be retired or put to other uses – this is often the business case in favor of electrifying the last few lines in a network where otherwise costs would be too high. Having only one type of motive power also allows greater fleet homogeneity which can also reduce costs.
Disadvantages
[edit]

- Electrification cost: electrification requires an entire new infrastructure to be built around the existing tracks at a significant cost. Costs are especially high when tunnels, bridges and other obstructions have to be altered for clearance. Another aspect that can raise the cost of electrification are the alterations or upgrades to railway signalling needed for new traffic characteristics, and to protect signalling circuitry and track circuits from interference by traction current. Electrification typically requires line closures while new equipment is being installed.
- Appearance: the overhead line structures and cabling can have a significant landscape impact compared with a non-electrified or third rail electrified line that has only occasional signalling equipment above ground level.
- Fragility and vulnerability: overhead electrification systems can suffer severe disruption due to minor mechanical faults or the effects of high winds causing the pantograph of a moving train to become entangled with the catenary, ripping the wires from their supports. The damage is often not limited to the supply to one track, but extends to those for adjacent tracks as well, causing the entire route to be blocked for a considerable time. Third-rail systems can suffer disruption in cold weather due to ice forming on the conductor rail.[44]
- Theft: the high scrap value of copper and the unguarded, remote installations make overhead cables an attractive target for scrap metal thieves.[45] Attempts at theft of live 25 kV cables may end in the thief's death from electrocution.[46] In the UK, cable theft is claimed to be one of the biggest sources of delay and disruption to train services – though this normally relates to signalling cable, which is equally problematic for diesel lines.[47]
- Incompatibility: Diesel trains can run on any track without electricity or with any kind of electricity (third rail or overhead line, DC or AC, and at any voltage or frequency). Not so for electric trains, which can never run on non-electrified lines, and which even on electrified lines can run only on the single, or the few, electrical system(s) for which they are equipped. Even on fully electrified networks, it is usually a good idea to keep a few diesel locomotives for maintenance and repair trains, for instance to repair broken or stolen overhead lines, or to lay new tracks. However, due to ventilation issues, diesel trains may have to be banned from certain tunnels and underground train stations mitigating the advantage of diesel trains somewhat.
- Birds may perch on parts with different charges, and animals may also touch the electrification system. Dead animals attract foxes or other scavengers,[48] bringing risk of collision with trains.
- In most of the world's railway networks, the height clearance of overhead electrical lines is not sufficient for a double-stack container car or other unusually tall loads. To upgrade electrified lines to the correct clearances (21 ft 8 in or 6.60 m) to take double-stacked container trains, besides renewing bridges over it, would normally mean need for special pantographs violating standardisation and requiring custom made vehicles[citation needed].
Railway electrification around the world
[edit]As of 2012, electrified tracks accounted for nearly one third of total tracks globally.[9] As of 2018, there were 72,110 km (44,810 mi) of railways electrified at 25 kV, either 50 or 60 Hz; 68,890 km (42,810 mi) electrified at 3 kV DC; 32,940 km (20,470 mi) electrified at 15 kV 16.7 or 16+2⁄3 Hz and 20,440 km (12,700 mi) electrified at 1.5 kV DC.[16]: 2
As of 2023, the Swiss rail network is the largest fully electrified network in the world and one of only eleven countries or territories to achieve this, as listed in List of countries by rail transport network size. The percentage then continues falling in order with Laos, Montenegro, India, Belgium, Georgia, South Korea, Netherlands, and Japan, with all others being less than 75% electrified.[49][50]
Overall, China takes first place, with around 100,000 km (62,000 mi) of electrified railway, followed by India with over 60,000 km (37,000 mi) of electrified railway, and continuing with Russia, with over 54,000 km (34,000 mi) of electrified railway. A number of countries have zero electrified railways, instead relying on diesel multiple units, locomotive hauled services and many alternate forms of transport. The European Union contains the longest amount of electrified railways (in length), with over 114,000 km (71,000 mi) of electrified railway, however only making up around 55% of the total railway length.
Several countries have announced plans to electrify all or most of their railway network, including Indian Railways and Israel Railways.[51] The Trans-Siberian Railway mainly in Russia is completely electrified, making it one of the longest stretches of electrified railways in the world.[52]
| Country / Territory | Length total | Length electrified | % of the total electrified | Data year |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Switzerland | 5,443 km (3,382 mi) | 5,443 km (3,382 mi) | 100% | 2020[53] |
| Armenia | 725.6 km (450.9 mi) | 725.6 km (450.9 mi) | 100% | 2022[54] |
| Hong Kong | 271 km (168 mi) | 271 km (168 mi) | 100% | 2023[55] |
| Singapore | 260 km (160 mi) | 260 km (160 mi) | 100% | 2024[56] |
| Qatar | 92.5 km (57.5 mi) | 92.5 km (57.5 mi) | 100% | 2025[a] |
| Mauritius | 30 km (19 mi) | 30 km (19 mi) | 100% | 2024[57] |
| Puerto Rico | 17 km (11 mi) | 17 km (11 mi) | 100% | 2006[58] |
| Macau | 16.3 km (10.1 mi) | 16.3 km (10.1 mi) | 100% | 2024[b] |
| Liechtenstein | 9.5 km (5.9 mi) | 9.5 km (5.9 mi) | 100% | 2024[59] |
| Monaco | 1.7 km (1.1 mi) | 1.7 km (1.1 mi) | 100% | 2024[60] |
| India | 69,734 km (43,331 mi) | 68,952 km (42,845 mi) | 98.88% | 2025[61] |
| Laos | 424 km (263 mi) | 414 km (257 mi) | 97.64% | 2024[62][63] |
| Luxembourg | 271 km (168 mi) | 262 km (163 mi) | 96.68% | 2021[64] |
| Montenegro | 250 km (160 mi) | 225 km (140 mi) | 90% | 2017[65] |
See also
[edit]- Battery electric multiple unit
- Battery locomotive
- Conduit current collection
- Current collector
- Dual electrification
- Electromote
- Fifth rail system
- Ground-level power supply
- History of the electric locomotive
- Initial Electrification Experiments NY NH HR
- List of railway electrification systems
- List of tram systems by gauge and electrification
- Multi-system (rail)
- Overhead conductor rails
- Railroad electrification in the United States
- Stud contact system
- Traction current pylon
- Traction powerstation
- Traction substation
Notes
[edit]- ^ Doha Metro (76km) + Lusail Tram (16.5km)
- ^ Macau Light Rapid Transit
References
[edit]- ^ a b c P. M. Kalla-Bishop, Future Railways and Guided Transport, IPC Transport Press Ltd. 1972, pp. 8-33
- ^ "A train ride through history". SWI swissinfo.ch.
- ^ "A nation of railway enthusiasts: a history of the Swiss railways". House of Switzerland.
- ^ "Indian Railways sets new benchmark! Runs 1st Double-stack container train in high rise OHE electrified sections". 12 June 2020.
- ^ "非人狂想屋 | 你的火车发源地 » HXD1B牵引双层集装箱列车" (in Chinese (China)). Retrieved 1 July 2020.
- ^ "Spotlight on double-stack container movement". @businessline. 14 October 2007. Retrieved 1 July 2020.
- ^ "Aerodynamic Effects Caused by Trains Entering Tunnels". ResearchGate. Retrieved 1 July 2020.
- ^ pamela (19 February 2021). "Railway electrification is expected to grow worldwide". Railway PRO. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ^ a b "Railway Handbook 2015" (PDF). International Energy Agency. p. 18. Retrieved 4 August 2017.
- ^ "A detour to success: The world's first electric streetcar". Siemens Global. Retrieved 2 August 2024.
- ^ "Frank J. Sprague". Encyclopedia.com. Retrieved 2 August 2024.
- ^ "Frank Sprague". Lemelson MIT. Retrieved 2 August 2024.
- ^ EN 50163: Railway applications. Supply voltages of traction systems (2007)
- ^ IEC 60850: Railway applications – Supply voltages of traction systems, 3rd edition (2007)
- ^ P. Leandes and S. Ostlund. "A concept for an HVDC traction system" in "International conference on main line railway electrification", Hessington, England, September 1989 (Suggests 30 kV). Glomez-Exposito A., Mauricio J.M., Maza-Ortega J.M. "VSC-based MVDC Railway Electrification System" IEEE transactions on power delivery, v. 29, no. 1, Feb. 2014. (suggests 24 kV).
- ^ a b c Simiyu, Patrobers; Davidson, I.E. (2021). "MVDC Railway Traction Power Systems; State-of-the Art, Opportunities, and Challenges". Energies. 14 (14). MDPI: 4156. doi:10.3390/en14144156. ISSN 1996-1073.
- ^ Future DC railway electrification system Go for 9kV (PDF). UIC Workshop on Energy Efficiency. Rotterdam: UIC. 11 September 2019.
- ^ Аржанников, Б.А.; Галкин, А.Г.; Бурков, А.Т.; Мансуров, В.А.; Набойченко, И.О. (2015), "Перспектива разработки системы электрической тяги постоянного тока повышенного напряжения 12, 24 кВ для скоростной магистрали Москва – Екатеринбург" [Perspective of developing 12 or 24 kV DC electrification system for Moscow-Ekaterinburg high-speed line], Бюллетень Результатов Научных Исследований (in Russian), 1 (14): 38–44
- ^ Donald G. Fink, H. Wayne Beatty Standard Handbook for Electrical Engineers 11th Edition, McGraw Hill, 1978 table 18-21. See also Gomez-Exposito p. 424, Fig. 3
- ^ "[MétroPole] De la centrale électrique au rail de traction". 10 August 2004. Archived from the original on 10 August 2004.
- ^ Dery, Bernard. "Truck (bogie) – Visual Dictionary". www.infovisual.info. Archived from the original on 16 June 2016. Retrieved 6 December 2016.
- ^ "MIT School of Engineering | » What's the difference between AC and DC?". Mit Engineering. Retrieved 9 November 2022.
- ^ "Alternating current – Energy Education". energyeducation.ca. Retrieved 9 November 2022.
- ^ "What is Alternating Current (AC)? | Basic AC Theory | Electronics Textbook". www.allaboutcircuits.com. Retrieved 9 November 2022.
- ^ "[IRFCA] Electric Loco Tap-changer Operation". www.irfca.org. Retrieved 9 November 2022.
- ^ Linder, C. (2002). Umstellung der Sollfrequenz im zentralen Bahnstromnetz von 16 2/3 Hz auf 16,70 Hz [Switching the frequency in train electric power supply network from 16 2/3 Hz to 16,70 Hz]. Elektrische Bahnen (in German). Oldenbourg-Industrieverlag. ISSN 0013-5437.
- ^ Torga, Ferran (14 February 2017). "Haramain high-speed crawls towards the start of operations". International Railway Journal. Retrieved 1 August 2024.
- ^ Alvarez-Maldonado Paramés, Javier (12 March 2013). "Haramain High Speed Railway: Fase II. Alcance del Proyecto" (PDF) (in Spanish). Colegio de Ingenieros de Caminos, Canales y Puertos. Archived from the original (PDF) on 27 December 2014.
- ^ See Винокуров p. 95+ Ch. 4: Потери и коэффициент полизного действия; нагреванние и охлаждение электрических машин и трансформаторов" (Losses and efficiency; heating and cooling of electrical machinery and transformers) magnetic losses pp. 96–97, ohmic losses pp. 97–99
- ^ Сидоров 1988 pp. 103–104, Сидоров 1980 pp. 122–123
- ^ "Unlocking the full benefits of rail electrification – Future Rail | Issue 98 | September 2022". rail.nridigital.com. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ^ It turns out that the efficiency of electricity generation by a modern diesel locomotive is roughly the same as the typical U.S. fossil-fuel power plant. The heat rate of central power plants in 2012 was about 9.5k BTU/kwh per the Monthly Energy Review of the U.S. Energy Information Administration which corresponds to an efficiency of 36%. Diesel motors for locomotives have an efficiency of about 40% (see Brake specific fuel consumption, Дробинский p. 65 and Иванова p.20.). But there are reductions needed in both efficiencies needed to make a comparison. First, one must degrade the efficiency of central power plants by the transmission losses to get the electricity to the locomotive. Another correction is due to the fact that efficiency for the Russian diesel is based on the lower heat of combustion of fuel while power plants in the U.S. use the higher heat of combustion (see Heat of combustion). Still another correction is that the diesel's reported efficiency neglects the fan energy used for engine cooling radiators. See Дробинский p. 65 and Иванова p. 20 (who estimates the on-board electricity generator as 96.5% efficient). The result of all the above is that modern diesel engines and central power plants are both about 33% efficient at generating electricity (in the nominal regime).
- ^ Хомич А. З. Тупицын О.И., Симсон А. Э. "Экономия топлива и теплотехническая модернизация тепловозов" (Fuel economy and the thermodynamic modernization of diesel locomotives). Москва: Транспорт, 1975. 264 pp. See Brake specific fuel consumption curves on p. 202 and charts of times spent in non-nominal regimes on pp. 10–12
- ^ Wang, Ucilia (25 May 2011). "Gigaom GE to Crank Up Gas Power Plants Like Jet Engines". Gigaom.com. Archived from the original on 27 May 2011. Retrieved 4 February 2016.
- ^ FlexEfficiency* 50 Combined Cycle Power Plant
- ^ Railway Gazette International Oct 2014.
- ^ "UK Network Rail electrification strategy report" Archived 22 June 2013 at the Wayback Machine Table 3.3, p. 31. Retrieved on 4 May 2010
- ^ a b c "Start Slow With Bullet Trains". Miller-McCune. 2 May 2011. Archived from the original on 28 January 2012. Retrieved 27 February 2012.
- ^ a b "Cumbernauld may be on track for railway line electrification". Cumbernauld News. 14 January 2009. Archived from the original on 19 April 2013. Retrieved 27 February 2012.
- ^ "Electric Idea". Bromsgrove Advertiser. 8 January 2008. Retrieved 27 February 2012.
- ^ "Rail – Analysis". IEA. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ^ Per Railway electrification in the Soviet Union#Energy-Efficiency it was claimed that after the mid 1970s electrics used about 25% less fuel per ton-km than diesels. However, part of this savings may be due to less stopping of electrics to let opposing trains pass since diesels operated predominately on single-track lines, often with moderately heavy traffic.
- ^ [1] AAR Plate H
- ^ "Committee Meeting – Spring 2009" (PDF). Royal Meteorological Society (rmets.org). Archived from the original (PDF) on 4 March 2016. Retrieved 15 September 2012.
- ^ "Network Rail – Cable Theft". Network Rail (www.networkrail.co.uk). Retrieved 15 September 2012.
- ^ "Police probe cable theft death link". ITV News. 27 June 2012. Retrieved 15 September 2012.
- ^ Sarah Saunders (28 June 2012). "Body discovery linked to rail cables theft". ITV News. Retrieved 7 May 2014.
- ^ Nachmann, Lars. "Tiere & Pflanzen Vögel Gefährdungen Stromtod Mehr aus dieser Rubrik Vorlesen Die tödliche Gefahr". Naturschutzbund (in German). Berlin, Germany. Retrieved 20 July 2016.
- ^ "2019 年铁道统计公报" (PDF). Archived from the original (PDF) on 6 June 2020. Retrieved 7 June 2020.
- ^ "Status of Railway Electrification (as on 01.04.2023)" (PDF).
- ^ "On track to full electrification: Low carbon railways in India". www.rapidtransition.org. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- ^ "Russia's legendary Trans-Siberian railroad line completely electrified – AP Worldstream | HighBeam Research". 4 September 2015. Archived from the original on 4 September 2015. Retrieved 9 November 2022.
- ^ "Public transport by Federal Statistical Office". www.bfs.admin.ch. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ "Armenia Length of Road Network: Railways Tracks: General Purpose | Economic Indicators | CEIC". www.ceicdata.com. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ "Transport Department - Railways". www.td.gov.hk. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ "LTA | Rail". www.lta.gov.sg. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ "Mauritian PM inaugurates Indian govt-sponsored Rose Hill-Reduit metro line". ThePrint. 23 January 2023.
- ^ "Railways in Puerto Rico". www.sinfin.net. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ International, Railway Gazette (14 August 2024). "Liechtenstein railway modernisation project launched". Railway Gazette International. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ "Railways in Monaco". www.sinfin.net. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ Narayan, Subhash (28 April 2025). "Railway chugs slowly on electrification drive, to cover final 811 km electrification by year end | Today News". mint. Archived from the original on 30 June 2025. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ "China-Laos Railway: Bridging borders, overcoming challenges". regional.chinadaily.com.cn. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ "Train schedule & map at Laos-China railway 2025". www.laostraintickets.com. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ "Rail | European Alternative Fuels Observatory". alternative-fuels-observatory.ec.europa.eu. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
- ^ "Modernization and Electrification of Nikšić – Podgorica Railway Line, Montenegro – Elzel". www.elzel.cz. Retrieved 15 July 2025.
Further reading
[edit]- Wilner, Frank (2012). Amtrak: Past, Present, Future. Simmons-Boardman Books, Omaha. ISBN 978-0911382-59-4.
- "On board with electrification". Permanent Way Institution Journal. 139 (1). January 2021. ISSN 2057-2425 – via PWI.
- Keenor, Garry (2021). Overhead Line Electrification for Railways (6th ed.). The PWI. ISBN 978-0-903489-15-7.
- "Network Rail A Guide to Overhead Electrification Revision 10" (PDF). Network Rail. February 2015.
- Nock, O.S. (1965). Britain's new railway: Electrification of the London-Midland main lines from Euston to Birmingham, Stoke-on-Trent, Crewe, Liverpool and Manchester. London: Ian Allan. OCLC 59003738.
- Nock, O.S. (1974). Electric Euston to Glasgow. Ian Allan. ISBN 978-0711005303.
- Walker, Robert. The Trans-Siberian Railway Encyclopedia. Archived from the original on 12 July 2017.
- Wolmar, Christian (2013). To the Edge of the World: The Story of the Trans-Siberian Express, the World's Greatest Railroad. London: Atlantic Books. ISBN 978-0857890375.
- "Electrification of Indian Railways to Lower Carbon Footprint". www.investindia.gov.in. Retrieved 9 November 2022.
- "Rail Electrification". Siemens Mobility Global. Retrieved 17 February 2023.
- Buxton, John; Heath, Donald (2025). Lines of power: the electrification of British railways, trials, tribulations and successes. Lewes: Unicorn. ISBN 978-1-917458-10-8.
Sources
[edit]English
[edit]- Moody, G T (1960). "Part One". Southern Electric (3rd ed.). London: Ian Allan Ltd.
- Gomez-Exposito A., Mauricio J.M., Maza-Ortega J.M. "VSC-based MVDC Railway Electrification System" IEEE transactions on power delivery, v. 29, no. 1, Feb. 2014 pp. 422–431. (suggests 24 kV DC)
- (Jane's) Urban Transit Systems
- Hammond, John Winthrop (2011) [1941]. Men and volts; the story of General Electric. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; London: General Electric Company; J. B. Lippincott & Co.; Literary Licensing, LLC. ISBN 978-1-258-03284-5 – via Internet Archive.
He was to produce the first motor that operated without gears of any sort, having its armature direct-connected to the car axle.
- Martin, T. Commerford (1924). Kaempffert, Waldemar Bernhard (ed.). A Popular History of American Invention. Vol. 1. London; New York: Charles Scribner's Sons – via Internet Archive.
- Malone, Dumas (1928). Sidney Howe Short. Vol. 17. London; New York: Charles Scribner's Sons.
Russian
[edit]- Винокуров В.А., Попов Д.А. "Электрические машины железно-дорожного транспорта" (Electrical machinery of railroad transportation), Москва, Транспорт, 1986. ISBN 5-88998-425-X, 520 pp.
- Дмитриев, В.А., "Народнохозяйственная эффективность электрификации железных дорог и применения тепловозной тяги" (National economic effectiveness of railway electrification and application of diesel traction), Москва, Транспорт 1976.
- Дробинский В.А., Егунов П.М. "Как устроен и работает тепловоз" (How the diesel locomotive works) 3rd ed. Moscow, Транспорт, 1980.
- Иванова В.Н. (ed.) "Конструкция и динамика тепловозов" (Construction and dynamics of the diesel locomotive). Москва, Транспорт, 1968 (textbook).
- Калинин, В.К. "Электровозы и электропоезда" (Electric locomotives and electric train sets) Москва, Транспорт, 1991 ISBN 978-5-277-01046-4
- Мирошниченко, Р.И., "Режимы работы электрифицированных участков" (Regimes of operation of electrified sections [of railways]), Москва, Транспорт, 1982.
- Перцовский, Л. М.; "Энергетическая эффективность электрической тяги" (Energy efficiency of electric traction), Железнодорожный транспорт (magazine), #12, 1974 p. 39+
- Плакс, А.В. & Пупынин, В. Н., "Электрические железные дороги" (Electric Railways), Москва "Транспорт" 1993.
- Сидоров Н.И., Сидорожа Н.Н. "Как устроен и работает электровоз" (How the electric locomotive works) Москва, Транспорт, 1988 (5th ed.). 233 pp, ISBN 978-5-277-00191-2. 1980 (4th ed.).
- Хомич А.З. Тупицын О.И., Симсон А.Э. "Экономия топлива и теплотехническая модернизация тепловозов" (Fuel economy and the thermodynamic modernization of diesel locomotives). Москва: Транспорт, 1975. 264 pp.
External links
[edit]
Media related to Electrically-powered rail transport at Wikimedia Commons
Railway electrification
View on GrokipediaHistory
Early experiments (1830s–1900)
The earliest documented experiments with electric railway propulsion occurred in the United States during the 1830s, driven by advances in battery and electromagnet technology but constrained by the low energy density of primary cells. In 1835, Vermont blacksmith Thomas Davenport constructed a small-scale model electric locomotive powered by platinum-zinc batteries, which operated on a circular iron track approximately 24 feet in diameter, demonstrating rotational motion via electromagnetic attraction and repulsion.[10] This device, weighing about 12 pounds, represented an initial proof-of-concept for electric traction but lacked sufficient power for practical transport due to rapid battery depletion.[10] In Scotland, chemist Robert Davidson advanced the concept with a battery-powered prototype electric locomotive in 1837, followed by a larger model named Galvani exhibited in 1842 at the Royal Scottish Society of Arts. Galvani, measuring 16 feet long and weighing around 6 tons, utilized Grove cells to achieve speeds of up to 4 miles per hour on a short demonstration track, hauling a load equivalent to several passengers; however, its operational range was limited to minutes before batteries required recharging, highlighting the inefficiencies of chemical power storage for sustained rail use.[11] Further experimentation in 1847 by American inventor Moses G. Farmer produced a miniature battery-powered electric railway capable of carrying passengers, including children, on an 18-inch gauge track powered by 48 wet-acid cells containing nitric acid.[10] This setup, demonstrated publicly, underscored persistent challenges such as excessive weight from batteries—often exceeding the vehicle's payload—and corrosion issues, rendering electric locomotives impractical for revenue service amid the dominance of steam power.[10] Breakthroughs in externally supplied power emerged later in the century. On May 31, 1879, at the Berlin Industrial Exhibition, Werner von Siemens demonstrated the world's first electric railway using a fixed external generator, with current supplied through the rails to a 2.5-horsepower locomotive on a 300-meter track, achieving speeds of 6-9 miles per hour and carrying passengers.[12] This non-battery system proved more viable for demonstrations, as it avoided storage limitations, though track conduction posed safety risks from exposed live rails.[12] In 1880, Thomas Edison tested a similar generator-powered locomotive on a half-mile loop at his Menlo Park laboratory, reaching 42 miles per hour unloaded, further validating fixed-power electric traction for potential urban or short-haul applications.[13] By the late 1880s and 1890s, experiments shifted toward overhead or third-rail systems to mitigate conduction hazards, with small-scale tests in Europe and the U.S. exploring alternating versus direct current, but full-scale commercial adoption remained elusive until the 20th century due to high infrastructure costs and unresolved standardization issues.[3] These pre-1900 efforts established foundational principles of electric motors and power delivery, yet causal limitations in battery technology and generation efficiency confined them to laboratory and exhibition settings.[3]Initial commercial implementations (1900–1945)
The period from 1900 to 1945 marked the transition of railway electrification from experimental prototypes to viable commercial operations, driven by the need to overcome steam locomotive limitations in urban areas, tunnels, and steep gradients, as well as fuel shortages during World War I. Early implementations focused on direct current (DC) systems for subways and commuter lines, while alternating current (AC) emerged for longer main lines in Europe, particularly where hydroelectric power was abundant. These efforts were concentrated in Europe and North America, with adoption motivated by operational efficiency, reduced pollution in cities, and energy independence from coal imports.[14][15] In Italy, electrification advanced rapidly due to mountainous terrain and early adoption of three-phase AC systems. The Valtellina Railway, a 106 km line from Colico to Tirano completed in 1902, became the world's first fully electrified main line for revenue service, operating at 3 kV 15 Hz AC with overhead lines; this project demonstrated the feasibility of electric traction for freight and passenger over challenging routes, influencing subsequent designs. By the 1920s and 1930s, Italy expanded electrification along key corridors, including the Milan-Reggio Calabria spine, reaching significant network coverage by 1941 using similar three-phase systems developed by companies like Ganz.[16][17] Switzerland pioneered widespread network electrification, leveraging abundant hydropower to electrify over 60% of its narrow-gauge lines by 1914 and initiating main line projects on the Swiss Federal Railways (SBB). The Gotthard route's conversion in the 1920s exemplified this, using 15 kV 16.7 Hz single-phase AC to handle alpine grades; wartime coal shortages accelerated adoption, positioning Switzerland as a leader in electric traction by the interwar period.[18][19] In the United States, electrification targeted commuter and interurban services amid urban growth and tunnel smoke hazards. The New York, New Haven & Hartford Railroad completed the first large-scale main line project in 1914, electrifying 115 km into New York City at 11 kV 25 Hz AC with third-rail segments; similar DC and AC installations followed in Philadelphia and Chicago by the 1930s, though main line freight remained diesel-steam dominant due to cheap coal. By 1920, the electric railway sector had become the nation's fifth-largest industry, underscoring commercial viability for high-density passenger routes.[20][14] The United Kingdom emphasized DC third-rail systems for suburban services, with the London Underground's expansions from 1905 onward eliminating steam in tunnels via 630 V DC. Main line trials, such as the Southern Railway's 660 V DC network reaching 450 km by 1937, served dense commuter corridors but faced economic hurdles pre-World War II.[21][22] Germany and other nations saw slower main line progress, with electrification limited to urban metros and select industrial lines until postwar mandates; pre-1945 efforts prioritized DC for S-Bahn systems in Berlin and Hamburg. Overall, by 1945, electrification comprised under 5% of global track mileage but proved economically superior in smoke-restricted or energy-scarce environments, setting precedents for voltage standardization debates.[23]Postwar expansion and standardization (1945–2000)
Following World War II, European railways, often nationalized, undertook extensive electrification programs to rebuild war-damaged infrastructure, capitalize on hydroelectric resources, and mitigate coal shortages exacerbated by industrial reconstruction demands. These initiatives prioritized electric traction for its superior efficiency over steam and emerging diesel alternatives, enabling higher speeds and capacities on key corridors. By contrast, the United States largely abandoned electrification, favoring diesel-electric locomotives due to abundant domestic coal and oil, resulting in the dismantling of prewar electric systems on lines like the New Haven Railroad by the 1960s.[23] In France, the Société Nationale des Chemins de Fer Français (SNCF) launched a major push in the late 1940s, completing the Paris-Dijon line under 25 kV, 50 Hz AC in 1952—the first mainline application of this system—and extending it to cover over 2,000 km by 1960, focusing on high-traffic routes to reduce oil imports amid postwar energy constraints. Germany's Deutsche Bundesbahn resumed electrification in the 1950s using the prewar 15 kV, 16.7 Hz AC standard, electrifying approximately 5,000 km by 1970 while shrinking the overall network post-partition. Italy completed prewar projects immediately after 1945 and expanded 3 kV DC systems, reaching 70% network coverage by 1980 through state-directed investments in the industrialized north. The United Kingdom's 1955 Modernisation Plan targeted 25 kV AC overhead for intercity routes, achieving electrification of the West Coast Main Line (London to Manchester/Glasgow) by stages between 1966 and 1974, though fiscal constraints limited broader rollout.[24][23][17] Japan experienced a parallel boom, electrifying urban and intercity lines at 1.5 kV DC postwar, then adopting 25 kV AC for the Tokaido Shinkansen, operational from 1964, which spurred national standardization and covered 60% of the network by 2000 via government-backed modernization. In Europe, the European Conference of Ministers of Transport (ECMT), established in 1953, coordinated cross-border compatibility through technical committees, promoting 25 kV, 50 Hz AC for new high-speed and freight lines as a practical standard compatible with public grids, though legacy DC and 15 kV systems persisted due to sunk infrastructure costs.[25][26][27] This patchwork necessitated multi-system locomotives for international services, such as those traversing France-Germany borders, but facilitated interoperability under Union Internationale des Chemins de fer (UIC) norms by the 1970s, with 25 kV AC emerging as the dominant choice for expansions—evident in over 10,000 km of new lines across the continent by 2000. By the period's end, electrification spanned roughly 50,000 km in Western Europe alone, representing about 40% of total track, though unevenly distributed with near-total coverage in mountainous nations like Switzerland (electrified since prewar but fully integrated postwar) versus partial in flatter, diesel-reliant areas.[26][27][28]Modern resurgence and challenges (2000–present)
Since the early 2000s, railway electrification has experienced a resurgence driven by efforts to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, improve energy efficiency, and support high-speed rail expansion, particularly in Asia and Europe. Globally, the electrification rate of railway networks reached 35% by 2022, up from lower levels in the late 20th century, with electrified lines handling a disproportionate share of traffic due to their prevalence on busy corridors.[29] In China, electrification surged to over 72% of the network by 2023, fueled by the construction of more than 40,000 km of high-speed rail lines, all overhead catenary-equipped at 25 kV AC, enabling speeds up to 350 km/h and reducing reliance on diesel for long-haul freight and passenger services.[30] India achieved approximately 96% electrification of its broad-gauge network by mid-2025, completing a government-mandated push started in 2017 to eliminate diesel traction entirely by converting over 60,000 km of track, primarily using 25 kV AC overhead systems to handle dense freight volumes exceeding 1.4 billion tonnes annually.[31] In Europe, the European Union's green transport policies, including the 2021 Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy, have accelerated projects like the UK's £1 billion+ electrification of the Midland Main Line (completed in phases from 2019–2024) and Germany's ongoing Deutsche Bahn initiatives to electrify 80% of its network by 2030, addressing gaps in secondary lines while integrating renewable grid power.[32] These efforts contrast with North America, where mainline freight electrification remains negligible—less than 1% of U.S. Class I railroads—despite commuter rail expansions like California's planned 25 kV AC upgrades for intercity services.[33] The global electric trains market, valued at $154 billion in 2024, is projected to grow at 6.5% CAGR through 2030, reflecting investments in multi-system locomotives for cross-border compatibility.[34] Despite this momentum, electrification faces significant challenges, including high upfront costs estimated at $2–5 million per km for overhead catenary installation, which deter widespread adoption in low-density freight networks.[9] Infrastructure retrofits pose technical hurdles, such as insufficient clearances under existing bridges and tunnels, requiring costly reinforcements or route deviations, as seen in many legacy European lines built for steam.[32] Dependency on grid capacity introduces vulnerabilities, with electrification demanding reliable high-voltage supply that strains aging power infrastructure in regions like the U.S., where intermittent renewables could exacerbate reliability issues without sufficient storage.[35] For freight-heavy systems, such as U.S. railroads hauling 40% of long-distance tonnage, studies conclude catenary systems are economically infeasible due to elevated maintenance, safety risks from 25 kV wires, and the superior fuel efficiency of modern diesel-electrics (up to 500 ton-miles per gallon), limiting net decarbonization benefits unless grids are predominantly low-carbon.[33][36] Battery-electric or hybrid alternatives are emerging but remain unproven at scale for heavy haulage, with trials like Europe's battery shunting locomotives showing range limitations under full loads.[9]Fundamentals of Electrification
Principles of electric traction
Electric traction in railways utilizes electric motors to convert electrical energy from an external fixed supply into mechanical power for propulsion, distinguishing it from self-contained systems like diesel where fuel is carried on board.[37] The core principle relies on electromagnetic induction: current flowing through motor windings in a magnetic field generates torque to rotate the armature, which is geared to the wheel axles.[38] This setup allows for high power density, enabling rapid acceleration and sustained high speeds without the thermal inefficiencies of internal combustion.[39] Power collection occurs via contact systems—overhead catenary contacted by pantographs or third/fourth rails engaged by shoes—delivering direct current (DC) at 600–3000 V for short-haul or alternating current (AC) at 15–25 kV for long-distance lines.[37] In DC systems, series-wound motors provide inherent high starting torque proportional to current squared, suitable for urban starts and stops, while AC systems employ asynchronous induction motors driven by inverters producing variable voltage and frequency for precise speed control.[37] Modern traction control uses solid-state devices like insulated-gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs) in choppers and inverters to modulate power, replacing resistive notching for reduced energy loss and wear.[37] A key advantage stems from regenerative and dynamic braking: during deceleration, traction motors reverse operation as generators, converting kinetic energy back to electrical form either fed to the supply or dissipated in resistors, recovering up to 20–30% of braking energy in compatible systems.[37] Overall, electric traction achieves motor efficiencies of approximately 90%, surpassing diesel-electric locomotives' 30–40% due to eliminated on-board prime mover losses and centralized generation efficiencies.[39] This efficiency, combined with lower emissions at the point of use and reduced maintenance from brushless AC designs, underpins the principle's superiority for high-density routes.[40]Power distribution and conversion
Traction power substations serve as the primary interface between the utility grid and the railway contact system, receiving high-voltage alternating current (AC) from the grid—typically in the range of tens to hundreds of kilovolts—and conditioning it for railway use.[41] These substations incorporate transformers to step down voltage, switchgear for control and protection, and, where required, rectifiers for AC-to-direct current (DC) conversion, ensuring stable power delivery while minimizing transmission losses.[41] Cooling systems and protective relays further safeguard components against overloads and faults, with modern designs leveraging solid-state rectifiers for higher efficiency compared to earlier mercury-arc types.[41] In DC electrification systems, prevalent in urban and metro networks at voltages of 0.75–3 kV, substations perform full AC-to-DC conversion via transformers followed by rectifier bridges, outputting power to third rails or overhead lines.[42] This process demands closely spaced substations—often every 2–5 km—due to inherent voltage drops and higher current requirements over resistive conductors, which also heighten risks of stray currents causing electrolytic corrosion in infrastructure.[42] Power distribution employs sectionalized feeders connected in parallel to the contact system, allowing fault isolation and load balancing while circuit breakers enable rapid de-energization for maintenance.[41] Alternating current systems, standardized at 25 kV and 50/60 Hz for mainline railways, simplify substation operations by requiring only voltage transformation without rectification, as the grid frequency aligns with traction needs.[42] Substations can thus be positioned farther apart, typically 25–30 km, reducing infrastructure density and costs; neutral sections or phase breaks manage phase continuity where multiple substation feeds intersect.[42] Distribution mirrors DC approaches with overhead catenary fed by autotransformers or booster transformers to compensate for inductive drops, maintaining catenary voltage within 10–15% of nominal under full load.[42] Onboard the train, power collected via pantographs (for overhead systems) or contact shoes (for third rails) undergoes further conversion to drive traction motors, which universally require DC or variable-frequency AC. In DC-fed trains, supply powers series-wound motors directly or feeds choppers/inverters for precise control and regenerative braking, recovering up to 30–40% of energy.[42] AC-fed locomotives employ onboard transformers to further reduce voltage, followed by rectifiers and pulse-width-modulation inverters to generate multiphase AC for asynchronous induction motors, enabling higher speeds and efficiencies—e.g., specific energy consumption as low as 20–30 Wh/tonne-km in high-speed applications.[42] Multi-system locomotives for cross-border operations integrate switchable converters handling both AC and DC inputs, with voltage source converters (VSCs) emerging in modern designs to support grid stabilization and renewable integration.[42]Contact systems: Overhead catenary vs rail conduction
Overhead catenary systems deliver electrical power via a contact wire suspended above the tracks, typically supported by a catenary wire and masts spaced 50-70 meters apart, with the train's pantograph maintaining sliding contact to draw current. These systems support higher voltages, such as 25 kV AC at 50 Hz, which minimizes transmission losses through reduced current for equivalent power compared to lower-voltage alternatives.[1][43] Rail conduction systems, conversely, supply power through an additional conductor rail positioned alongside or between the running rails, contacted by collector shoes on the train undercarriage. Third-rail configurations use one energized rail with running rails as return path, common at 600-750 V DC, while fourth-rail setups employ separate positive and negative rails to mitigate stray currents and corrosion, as in London's Underground at 420 V and 210 V DC segments.[1][44] Overhead catenary excels in mainline applications due to its capacity for high-speed operations exceeding 200 km/h, as the elevated contact avoids ground-level obstructions and weather-induced disruptions like flooding, while enabling efficient long-distance power distribution with minimal resistive losses at elevated voltages. In contrast, rail conduction suits urban metros and subways where space constraints preclude overhead structures, offering lower initial installation costs—estimated 20-30% less than catenary—and reduced visual intrusion, though limited to speeds below 160 km/h due to arcing risks at gaps near switches and crossings.[1][43][45] Safety profiles differ markedly: third- and fourth-rail systems pose electrocution hazards from exposed conductors, necessitating fenced tracks and prohibiting live maintenance, whereas catenary's height reduces public access risks but introduces pantograph entanglement potential during high winds. Maintenance for catenary involves periodic wire tensioning and replacement every 10-15 years due to wear, contrasting with rail conduction's simpler ground-level access but vulnerability to ice accumulation, which can interrupt contact unless heated.[1][44][46]| Aspect | Overhead Catenary | Rail Conduction (Third/Fourth Rail) |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage/Currency | 15-25 kV AC or 1.5-3 kV DC | 600-1500 V DC |
| Max Speed | >300 km/h suitable | <160 km/h typical |
| Installation Cost | Higher (masts, wiring) | Lower (ground-level) |
| Weather Resilience | Better (elevated, less ice/flood impact) | Poorer (ice, snow on rail) |
| Safety Concerns | Pantograph faults, height-related falls | Exposed rail electrocution |
| Applications | Main lines, high-speed | Urban metros, tunnels |
System Classifications
Voltage standards and international norms
The standardization of voltages in railway electrification aims to facilitate interoperability, reduce equipment complexity, and enhance safety across national borders. The European standard EN 50163, titled "Railway applications—Supply voltages of traction systems," defines nominal contact line voltages and their operational ranges, categorizing them for urban, suburban, and mainline applications. This standard specifies DC nominal voltages of 600 V and 750 V for low-speed urban networks, 1,500 V for suburban lines, and 3,000 V for longer-distance DC systems, with AC options including 15 kV at 16⅔ Hz and 25 kV at 50 Hz for high-speed and freight routes.[4] Permissible deviations ensure reliable operation, such as ±20% for 25 kV AC systems, allowing voltages from 20 kV to 30 kV under steady-state conditions to account for load variations and transmission losses.[4] Internationally, the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) through Technical Committee 9 harmonizes these via standards like IEC 60850, which supports EN 50163 by providing guidelines for railway electrical systems, emphasizing compatibility with public grids and traction demands.[48] The International Union of Railways (UIC) promotes these norms for cross-border operations, advocating 25 kV 50 Hz AC as a preferred system for new electrifications due to its efficiency in power transmission over distances exceeding 500 km, as evidenced by its adoption in over 60 countries for high-speed lines since the 1970s.[49] Non-standard voltages persist in legacy systems, but UIC initiatives, such as those outlined in their electrification workshops, push for convergence to minimize multi-system locomotives, which increase costs by 20-30% due to added transformers and switchgear.[49] The following table summarizes key standard voltages per EN 50163 and IEC guidelines:| System Type | Nominal Voltage | Frequency (AC) | Typical Application | Operational Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DC Overhead/Third Rail | 600 V | N/A | Urban metros/trams | 500–720 V |
| DC Overhead/Third Rail | 750 V | N/A | Urban/suburban rail | 500–900 V (third rail); 600–900 V (overhead) |
| DC Overhead | 1,500 V | N/A | Suburban/mainline | 1,200–1,800 V |
| DC Overhead | 3,000 V | N/A | Mainline freight/passenger | 2,400–3,600 V |
| AC Overhead | 15 kV | 16⅔ Hz | Mainline in Central Europe | 12–18 kV |
| AC Overhead | 25 kV | 50 Hz | High-speed/global mainline | 19–27 kV (static); up to 30 kV short-term |
DC vs AC: Core electrical differences
Direct current (DC) railway electrification supplies power as a unidirectional flow of electrons, typically at voltages from 600 V to 3,000 V, which demands higher currents and thus thicker conductors or additional rails to manage resistive losses over distance.[37] Alternating current (AC) systems deliver oscillatory power that reverses direction periodically, measured in hertz (Hz), at higher voltages such as 15 kV to 25 kV and frequencies like 16.7 Hz or 50 Hz, enabling efficient high-voltage transmission via compact wiring and transformer-based voltage adjustment.[37][1] In DC setups, grid-supplied AC must be rectified to DC at each substation using transformers and converters, limiting feasible distances due to I²R losses and voltage drop, which necessitate installations every few kilometers—often eight times more frequent than in AC networks.[37] AC avoids substation rectification by transmitting grid-compatible power directly, with step-down transformation occurring onboard locomotives through air- or oil-cooled transformers, allowing substations spaced 30-50 km apart and lower capital costs for long-haul routes.[37][1] Traction motor integration differs fundamentally: DC pairs with series-wound motors featuring commutators and brushes for precise torque control via resistors, rheostats, or thyristor choppers, yielding strong low-speed adhesion but introducing arcing wear and commutation limits at high speeds.[37] AC historically relied on onboard rectification for DC motors but now favors brushless three-phase asynchronous induction motors powered by inverters and variable-frequency drives, which provide smoother operation, superior regenerative braking, and efficiencies up to 95% in modern locomotives, though requiring sophisticated semiconductor controls.[37] AC transmission incurs skin effect, where alternating fields confine current to the conductor's outer layer—more pronounced at 50 Hz than 16.7 Hz—elevating AC resistance by 10-20% relative to DC for equivalent cross-sections and prompting use of stranded or tubular overhead wires to mitigate proximity effects.[51] DC exploits the full conductor volume uniformly, avoiding such frequency-dependent losses but constraining scalability without voltage multiplication, historically limited by mercury-arc or early solid-state converters until high-power IGBTs enabled viable high-voltage DC post-1980s.[37]Multi-system and hybrid approaches
Multi-system locomotives are electric rail vehicles engineered to operate under multiple electrification standards, accommodating variations in voltage and frequency without requiring power source changes. These designs incorporate transformers, rectifiers, and switchgear capable of handling systems such as 25 kV 50 Hz AC, 15 kV 16.7 Hz AC, 3 kV DC, and 1.5 kV DC, facilitating uninterrupted cross-border freight and passenger services in regions with heterogeneous infrastructure.[52] In Europe, where national networks evolved independently post-World War II, multi-system capability addresses interoperability challenges, reducing the need for locomotive exchanges at borders and minimizing downtime.[2] Prominent examples include the Siemens Vectron series, introduced in 2010, which offers modular configurations for up to four power systems, achieving maximum speeds of 200 km/h and power outputs exceeding 6 MW in multi-system variants.[52] Similarly, Stadler's EURO6000, part of the EURODUAL platform, supports three overhead voltages including 25 kV AC and DC systems, deployed in countries like Italy and Sweden for heavy freight haulage.[53] Alstom's Prima locomotives, such as those enabling travel across eight European countries from France to Poland, exemplify this approach by integrating advanced power electronics for seamless transitions.[54] These locomotives employ automatic system detection and switching, though complexity increases maintenance costs by 10-20% compared to single-system units due to redundant components.[2] Hybrid approaches extend electrification by integrating onboard energy storage or auxiliary propulsion, allowing operation on partially electrified or unelectrified segments. Battery-assisted hybrids, for instance, capture regenerative braking energy and deploy it for short non-electrified gaps, as in systems combining overhead lines with lithium-ion batteries to bridge up to 100 km without catenary.[55] Electro-diesel (bi-mode) locomotives, like those trialed in the UK and Germany, switch between pantograph-drawn electricity and diesel engines, achieving up to 50% emissions reductions on mixed routes compared to pure diesel.[56] Intermittent electrification strategies, involving discontinuous catenary with battery recharging at stations, represent a cost-effective hybrid for low-traffic lines, potentially lowering infrastructure expenses by 30-50% versus full overhead wiring.[9] Such systems prioritize efficiency in transitional networks, though battery weight penalties limit top speeds and range in high-demand applications.[57]Direct Current Systems
Third and fourth rail configurations
Third rail systems supply direct current (DC) electric power to trains via an additional insulated conductor rail positioned parallel to and insulated from the two running rails. The conductor rail, contacted by sliding shoes on the train, typically operates at 600 V or 750 V DC, with the return path through the running rails.[58][21] This configuration emerged in the late 19th century as one of the earliest methods for rail electrification, following onboard batteries, and remains prevalent in urban and metro networks due to its compatibility with low clearance environments like tunnels and subways.[45] Installation costs for third rail are lower than overhead catenary systems, as they avoid extensive structural modifications for bridges, tunnels, and stations, making them suitable for dense urban areas.[1] Power collection occurs via collector shoes that maintain contact with the rail, which is often placed 2-3 inches above the running rails and protected by low covers to mitigate hazards.[59] However, third rail systems face limitations in power delivery; higher voltages increase arcing risks and require greater insulation, restricting them to lower voltages compared to overhead systems, which support up to 25 kV AC for mainline operations.[45] Safety concerns are significant, as the exposed conductor carries lethal voltages—750 V DC suffices to cause fatal electrocution—and poses risks to track workers, trespassers, and wildlife, necessitating continuous fencing, signage, and insulated covers.[21] Weather impacts include snow and ice accumulation disrupting contact, flooding shorting the system, and leaves causing adhesion issues, though less susceptible to wind than overhead wires.[45] Examples include the UK’s Southern Rail network at 750 V DC, extending over 1,000 km, and U.S. systems like New York City Subway at 625 V DC (third rail) alongside 750 V sections.[1][58] Fourth rail configurations, a variant of third rail, employ two separate conductor rails—one positive and one negative—alongside the running rails, primarily to isolate traction currents from the track for signaling integrity and to minimize electrolytic corrosion. The London Underground exemplifies this, using a third rail at +420 V DC and a fourth at -210 V DC relative to ground, yielding 630 V DC total, with running rails largely insulated from return currents.[60] This setup originated from early 20th-century requirements to limit stray currents that could corrode nearby utilities and tunnel linings, particularly cast iron segments prone to galvanic action in moist environments.[61] In fourth rail systems, the dedicated return rail reduces reliance on running rails for current return, preventing voltage gradients that interfere with DC track circuits used for train detection and signaling.[60] It also caps rail-to-ground voltage at half the traction voltage, enhancing safety around infrastructure. While more complex and costly to install than single third rail—requiring additional rail and insulators—this approach suits deep underground networks where overhead lines are infeasible and corrosion risks high. The London Underground's approximately 400 km of track employs this exclusively, with adaptations for shared sections using the outer running rail as return for non-Underground services.[61] Maintenance challenges include ensuring insulation integrity to avoid cross-connections, but the system supports reliable operation in confined spaces.[60]Overhead DC for medium and high voltages
Overhead direct current (DC) systems at medium to high voltages, typically 1,500 V and 3,000 V, employ catenary wires to deliver power, facilitating mainline operations where third-rail conduction proves inadequate due to voltage limitations and safety constraints at elevated speeds. These configurations reduce current magnitudes for equivalent power output compared to sub-1,000 V setups, thereby curtailing I²R losses in conductors and enabling substation intervals of several kilometers.[62][63] The 1,500 V DC overhead variant supports dense suburban and regional services, as seen in Japan's networks, where it accommodates frequent acceleration demands via DC motors while maintaining feasible infrastructure density. Substation spacing averages 3–4 km in high-load corridors, influenced by peak traction current draws exceeding 5,000 A per train.[64][43] Higher at 3,000 V DC, this system predominates in Italy and Spain, where it has underpinned national electrification since the 1930s, with early adoption on lines like those served by FS Class E.626 locomotives. The elevated voltage halves current relative to 1,500 V for the same power, permitting substation separations up to 40–50 km and smaller conductor cross-sections, which lowers capital outlay for copper or alloy wiring.[2][65] Catenary design for these voltages features a messenger wire of stranded copper or bronze alloy, typically 120–150 mm² in section, supporting a contact wire of similar materials via droppers spaced 1.5–2 m apart to ensure pantograph pressure uniformity at speeds to 160 km/h. Insulators, rated for 4,000 V DC creepage, incorporate fiberglass-reinforced cores with silicone housings to mitigate contamination-induced flashovers, while tensioning systems maintain 10–15 kN preload to counteract thermal expansion. Return currents flow through running rails, necessitating bonding and grounding to limit electrolytic corrosion.[66][67] Limitations include the need for rectifier-equipped substations converting grid AC to DC, incurring conversion efficiencies around 95% but avoiding AC-specific reactive compensation. These systems excel in regenerative braking recovery, as DC inherently matches motor generation without phase synchronization issues.[62]Performance characteristics and limitations
Direct current (DC) railway systems excel in providing high starting torque and rapid acceleration through series motors, making them particularly suitable for urban and suburban services with frequent stops and starts. These characteristics stem from the inherent properties of DC motors, which offer self-speed regulation and efficient power delivery at low speeds, consuming less electrical energy compared to equivalent AC setups in short-haul operations. Regenerative braking further enhances energy efficiency by returning power directly to the supply line when feasible, reducing overall consumption in dense traffic scenarios.[68] Transmission performance in DC systems is constrained by significant voltage drops (ΔV = RI), where resistance in feeders and high currents—often exceeding 6,000 A at 750 V—lead to substantial I²R losses, requiring thick cables and limiting effective power delivery over distance. Substations must be spaced closely, typically every 2.5–5 km for 750 V urban third-rail systems and 15–30 km (or up to 25 km at 3 kV overhead) for mainline applications, compared to wider intervals in AC systems. Common voltages range from 600–750 V for low-speed urban lines to 1,500–3,000 V for overhead mainlines, enabling higher power (e.g., up to 6,800 A at 750 V in some networks) but still resulting in lower overall efficiency for extended routes due to the need for more infrastructure.[2][68][69] Key limitations include reduced maximum speeds, capped at around 160 km/h for third-rail configurations due to contact reliability issues, and inherent restrictions from low voltages that limit train size, power output, and suitability for high-speed or heavy-haul operations. Overhead DC mitigates some constraints at higher voltages like 3 kV but remains vulnerable to greater losses and requires costly substations with negative boosters to manage returns, increasing capital and maintenance demands. Third-rail variants add safety risks from exposed conductors (e.g., electrification hazards) and operational disruptions from snow or ice accumulation, while all DC setups demand denser infrastructure density, rendering them uneconomical for long-distance mainlines where AC predominates. Equipment, though lighter and cheaper initially with no electromagnetic interference to signaling, faces higher wear from frequent voltage fluctuations under peak loads.[2][68]Alternating Current Systems
Single-phase AC variants
Single-phase alternating current (AC) systems dominate modern mainline railway electrification due to their ability to transmit high power over long distances with reduced current levels compared to direct current (DC) equivalents, enabling fewer substations and lighter overhead wiring.[70] These systems typically employ overhead catenary wires delivering power to pantographs on locomotives, which house step-down transformers to convert the high-voltage supply to levels suitable for traction motors.[71] The single-phase configuration simplifies infrastructure to a single energized contact wire plus rail return, avoiding the complexity of multiple overhead conductors required for polyphase alternatives. The primary variants differ in voltage and frequency, shaped by historical engineering choices and grid compatibility. The 15 kV, 16.7 Hz (precisely 16⅔ Hz) system emerged in the early 20th century in Central Europe, where railways built dedicated power generation to match the low frequency, which reduces transformer and motor core losses while allowing compact designs for early AC traction equipment. Adopted extensively in Germany starting with the 1911 electrification of the Gotha–Würzburg line, it powers over 30,000 km of track in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, and Norway as of the 1970s, with ongoing use for high-speed and freight services. This frequency necessitates phase converters or dedicated generators, as it deviates from standard 50 Hz grids, but supports efficient power transmission with substation spacing up to 50-60 km under load.[72] In contrast, the 25 kV, 50 Hz variant aligns with commercial grid frequencies, enabling direct transformer connections from three-phase utility supplies to single-phase catenary output, which lowers substation complexity and maintenance costs.[70] First implemented in the UK on the 1955 Euston–Rugby line and standardized for British mainlines by 1961, it now electrifies extensive networks in countries including India (over 60,000 km as of 2023), China, and parts of France and Australia.[71] Technical enhancements like autotransformer configurations effectively double the voltage to 50 kV between feeders and catenary, minimizing voltage drops and permitting spans over 100 km between substations while delivering up to 10-15 MW per feeder.[73] This system's compatibility with standard frequencies facilitates integration with national grids, though it introduces harmonics that require filtering to mitigate power quality issues.[74] Less common single-phase variants include 25 kV at 25 Hz in isolated lines like Austria's Mariazellerbahn, reflecting legacy industrial frequencies, and experimental higher voltages, but these lack widespread adoption due to standardization pressures.[2] Across variants, locomotives employ thyristor or IGBT-based converters to rectify and invert power for three-phase asynchronous motors, achieving regenerative braking efficiencies above 90% in modern designs.[75] The choice between low- and line-frequency systems hinges on legacy infrastructure versus grid synchronization, with 50 Hz gaining favor for new builds to reduce conversion losses and costs.[72]Low-frequency and three-phase systems
Low-frequency alternating current (AC) systems, typically operating at 15 kV and 16.7 Hz, are utilized in the mainline railway networks of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Sweden, and Norway.[76] This frequency standard emerged in the early 20th century to enable direct compatibility with series-wound DC traction motors, which could operate on AC without rectification due to the slow cycle rate minimizing sparking at commutators.[77] The precise value shifted from 16⅔ Hz (16.666 Hz) to 16.7 Hz on October 16, 1995, to align better with modern generation equipment while retaining legacy infrastructure.[77] Power for these systems is derived from national 50 Hz grids via phase-controlled frequency converters, often in multi-megawatt configurations using eight-step cycloconverters to produce the required single-phase output. The lower frequency reduces inductive reactance losses in onboard transformers and motors compared to 50 Hz systems, as reactance scales with frequency, allowing higher power delivery with less heating in era-specific windings.[78] It also mitigates skin effect in copper conductors, distributing current more uniformly across the cross-section and improving efficiency for high-current traction demands.[78] However, integration with 50 Hz public supplies necessitates dedicated substations, increasing capital costs, though these are offset by the system's maturity in alpine and high-speed routes where motor performance historically favored low-frequency operation. Three-phase AC electrification, predominantly at low frequencies like 16⅔ Hz, was pioneered in the 1890s for its inherent advantages in driving polyphase induction motors, which provide constant torque, high starting power, and inherent regenerative capability without additional commutators.[79] Early systems, such as Hungary's Ganz Works trials in 1892 and Italy's 3.6 kV network expanded post-1900, employed two overhead contact wires for the two live phases and the running rails as the neutral return, delivering balanced power directly to locomotives.[2] In the United States, the Great Northern Railway implemented a three-phase setup around 1909–1928 over Cascade Mountains routes, using 11 kV at 25 Hz with dual trolley poles, but converted to single-phase due to maintenance challenges.[80] These systems offered superior efficiency over single-phase alternatives by eliminating pulsating torque and enabling simpler motor designs, but required precise phase synchronization across dual overhead lines, complicating catenary erection and increasing susceptibility to insulation failures from voltage differentials.[2] Italy's network, once comprising over 1,000 km, persisted until May 25, 1976, when the final segment shifted to 3 kV DC for standardization.[17] No mainline three-phase supply persists today; post-1980s semiconductor advances allow modern locomotives to rectify single-phase catenary power to DC and invert it to variable-frequency three-phase AC for asynchronous traction motors, rendering external three-phase distribution obsolete.[2]Advantages in long-distance and high-power applications
Alternating current systems, particularly those operating at 25 kV and 50 Hz, enable efficient power transmission over extended distances by supporting higher voltages that minimize resistive losses in overhead contact systems and feeder lines. For a given power demand, higher voltage reduces current flow, thereby lowering I²R losses, which become significant in direct current systems limited to lower voltages like 1.5–3 kV. This efficiency allows substations to be spaced farther apart—often 50–80 km—compared to denser placements required for DC networks, reducing infrastructure density and maintenance needs along mainlines.[1] The inherent transformability of AC power further enhances long-distance viability, as locomotives can employ onboard transformers to step down high transmission voltages to lower levels suitable for traction motors, avoiding the conversion inefficiencies historically associated with DC voltage adjustment via rectifiers or modern semiconductors. In contrast, DC systems rely on fixed voltages, necessitating compensatory measures like additional substations or boosters for sustained high-power delivery over distance. This transformer-based approach supports consistent performance in applications spanning hundreds of kilometers, as seen in European high-speed networks where 25 kV AC sustains operations without prohibitive energy dissipation.[9] For high-power demands, such as those in heavy freight haulage or rapid acceleration of passenger trains, AC electrification at elevated voltages facilitates greater power throughput—often exceeding 10 MW per locomotive—while maintaining manageable current levels that prevent excessive heating in catenary wires and pantographs. Freight-oriented analyses indicate that higher-voltage AC configurations yield substantial energy savings relative to lower-voltage alternatives, enabling locomotives to handle loads up to 20,000 tons on gradients without voltage drops that impair tractive effort. Low-frequency variants, like 16.7 Hz at 15–25 kV, further optimize high-power motor performance by reducing reactive losses in induction drives, a factor contributing to their adoption in demanding alpine and transcontinental routes.[9][1]Technical Comparisons
AC versus DC for mainline operations
For mainline railway operations, characterized by long-haul routes, high-speed services, and elevated power demands exceeding several megawatts per train, alternating current (AC) electrification has become the predominant choice over direct current (DC) due to fundamental advantages in power transmission physics and infrastructure scalability.[1] AC systems operate at higher voltages, typically 25 kV single-phase at 50 Hz or 16.7 Hz, enabling lower transmission currents for the same power output compared to DC's mainline voltages of 1.5–3 kV.[81] This reduces resistive (I²R) losses in the overhead contact line, as power P = V × I implies that increasing voltage halves current and quarters losses for equivalent power.[81][69] The voltage gradient limitation in DC—constrained by insulation, arcing risks, and pantograph flashover—necessitates more frequent substations to counteract voltage drops, with typical spacings of 20–30 km for 3 kV DC systems under heavy load.[81] In contrast, 25 kV AC supports substation intervals of 35–50 km in standard configurations, extending to 80 km with autotransformer enhancements that effectively double the transmission voltage and halve phase currents.[82][73] Fewer substations lower capital expenditures on rectifiers, transformers, and civil works, making AC economically viable for routes spanning hundreds of kilometers, as demonstrated in Europe's post-1950s mainline conversions.[1][69] DC's higher currents demand thicker catenary conductors and amplify energy dissipation, rendering it less suitable for sustained high-power draws in freight or passenger services exceeding 100 km/h, where cumulative losses compound.[81] AC mitigates this through efficient grid integration and transformer scalability, supporting train powers up to 12 MW at speeds over 250 km/h without proportional infrastructure densification.[81] Regenerative braking recovery, critical for energy efficiency on mainlines, functions comparably in both but benefits from AC's lower line impedance, reducing dissipation of returned power.[1] Onboard, modern locomotives for either system rely on AC induction or synchronous motors driven by variable-frequency inverters; DC supplies require rectification to DC link voltage, while AC demands phase rectification and inversion, with negligible efficiency disparities under contemporary silicon-carbide semiconductors.[81] Legacy DC advantages in simple series-wound motor control have eroded, as AC enables superior torque-speed profiles via electronics.[81] Thus, for new mainline projects, AC predominates globally, as in India's 25 kV network expansions since the 1960s and Europe's high-speed corridors, prioritizing lifecycle cost over initial urban-oriented DC simplicity.[82][1]Overhead versus ground-level power delivery
Overhead power delivery systems utilize catenary wires suspended above the tracks to supply electricity to trains via pantographs, enabling higher voltages typically up to 25 kV AC for mainline operations. In contrast, ground-level systems employ a third rail positioned alongside the running rails, delivering power through contact shoes at lower voltages such as 750 V DC, predominantly in urban metro and suburban networks.[1] These configurations differ fundamentally in infrastructure demands, with overhead systems requiring taller structures and clearance heights unsuitable for many tunnels, while third rails integrate more seamlessly into enclosed environments without vertical obstructions. Safety considerations favor overhead systems due to the elevated conductor reducing exposure risks to personnel and the public; third rails, being at ground level, pose electrocution hazards to track workers, trespassers, and maintenance staff, necessitating frequent de-energization and insulated covers that can fail under wear or environmental stress.[1] Incidents involving third rail contact have resulted in fatalities, particularly during snowy conditions where ice bridges gaps, amplifying conductivity risks, whereas overhead lines are less prone to such ground-level interactions but susceptible to pantograph arcing at high speeds.[83] For high-speed mainlines exceeding 200 km/h, overhead catenaries provide stable contact and support greater power transmission without the arcing limitations of third rails, which are confined to speeds below 160 km/h due to shoe-rail wear and energy loss. Installation costs for third rail systems are approximately 20-30% lower than overhead equivalents, as they avoid extensive pole and wire erection, making them preferable for dense urban retrofits where space is constrained.[84] However, maintenance for overhead involves periodic wire tensioning, insulator replacements, and vegetation clearance, often requiring specialized access equipment and downtime, while third rail upkeep focuses on rail polishing and shoe inspections, benefiting from ground-level accessibility but demanding vigilant corrosion and debris management.[1] Lifecycle analyses indicate overhead systems yield superior energy efficiency for long-haul freight and passenger services due to reduced resistance losses at higher voltages, though third rails excel in short-haul metro operations with frequent stops.| Aspect | Overhead Catenary | Third Rail |
|---|---|---|
| Voltage Capacity | High (up to 25 kV AC) | Low (typically 750 V DC)[1] |
| Safety Profile | Lower ground risks; arcing at speed[1] | Higher exposure hazards; snow/ice issues[83] |
| Installation Cost | Higher due to structures[84] | Lower, urban-friendly[84] |
| Maintenance | Complex (wires, pantographs)[1] | Simpler access but wear-intensive[84] |
| Applications | Mainline, high-speed, freight | Metro, suburban, low-speed[1] |
Compatibility with signaling and control systems
Electrified railway systems introduce electromagnetic interference (EMI) and traction current flows that can disrupt signaling and control systems, which rely on low-level electrical signals for train detection, interlocking, and communication. In direct current (DC) systems, running rails serve as the primary return path for propulsion currents, often exceeding 1,000 amperes, which can induce voltage gradients and stray currents that interfere with track circuits operating at 1-10 volts DC.[85] These interferences manifest as false train occupancy detections or failure to detect shunts, necessitating specialized impedance bonds to direct return currents around track circuit gaps while blocking signaling frequencies.[86] Alternating current (AC) electrification, typically at 15-25 kV, generates time-varying magnetic fields and harmonics from power electronics, inducing voltages in adjacent signaling cables and control circuits up to several volts, potentially corrupting data transmission in systems like axle counters or radio-based train control.[87] [88] Unlike DC, AC traction currents do not directly shunt DC track circuits but produce broadband EMI during acceleration or regenerative braking transients, which can exceed electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) limits for European Train Control System (ETCS) Level 2 signaling.[89] [90] Mitigation strategies include balanced rail bonding to equalize return currents across rails, reducing longitudinal voltage imbalances below 2 volts per kilometer, and the use of filters or shielded cabling to attenuate EMI in control systems.[85] [91] Overhead catenary systems in AC setups minimize ground-level interference compared to third-rail DC, though proximity to signaling equipment requires separation distances of at least 10 meters to limit induced fields below 50 microtesla.[87] In practice, DC metro lines like those in London have retrofitted digital track circuits to tolerate higher rail currents, while AC mainlines in Europe employ predictive modeling to ensure compliance with EN 50121 railway EMC standards.[92] [93]Economic Analysis
Capital investment and infrastructure costs
The capital costs of railway electrification encompass the installation of fixed infrastructure such as overhead contact systems (OCS), third-rail conductors, substations, and supporting civil engineering works like foundations, portals, and modifications to bridges or tunnels. These upfront investments typically range from $1 million to $6 million per route kilometer, depending on system type, terrain, and regional labor factors, with overhead systems generally commanding higher expenditures due to the complexity of erecting and tensioning catenary wires.[9] [94] Substations, required every 20-50 kilometers to step down grid voltage, can add $5-10 million each, while track-side cabling and protective devices contribute further.[8] Overhead line systems, prevalent in mainline applications for their compatibility with high-speed and heavy freight, incur costs around $1.73 million per route kilometer for the OCS alone in U.S. contexts, excluding rolling stock or signaling upgrades.[9] Third-rail DC systems, suited to urban or metro environments with lower speeds, offer lower capital outlays—often 20-50% less than overhead—owing to simpler ground-level installation without elevated structures, though they necessitate insulated rail gaps and safety enclosures.[83] [43] In tunnels, overhead requires expanded clearances, inflating civil costs by up to 30% compared to third-rail configurations.[43] Project-specific examples illustrate variability: the Caltrain Peninsula Corridor electrification, spanning 82 kilometers with overhead 25 kV AC, allocated approximately $1 billion of its $2.4 billion total budget to infrastructure elements like catenary and substations as of 2021, reflecting added expenses from seismic retrofits and urban constraints.[95] In the UK, the Great Western Electrification Programme's costs escalated from £900 million in 2013 to £2.8 billion by 2016 for 300+ kilometers, driven partly by underestimation of civil works and supply chain issues, yielding effective rates exceeding £9 million per route kilometer in affected segments.[96] North American freight-focused analyses, such as those by the Association of American Railroads, highlight average overruns of 40.8% on public rail projects, underscoring risks from geotechnical surprises and regulatory delays.[8] Costs are modulated by site conditions—rural greenfield alignments may halve urban figures through reduced disruption premiums—and by procurement strategies, with modular prefabrication potentially trimming OCS installation by 15-20% via off-site assembly.[97] Integration with existing diesel infrastructure demands minimal track alterations for electrification, but voltage-specific transformers and earthing upgrades add 10-15% to totals.[9] In freight corridors, heavier-duty catenary designed for 100+ km/h pantograph speeds elevates expenses over passenger-oriented setups.[8]Operational efficiency and maintenance realities
Electric locomotives demonstrate superior operational efficiency compared to diesel counterparts, achieving energy conversion efficiencies of over 90% at the wheel, versus 30-40% for diesel-electric systems, primarily due to the elimination of on-board combustion and heat losses.[39] This results in electric trains consuming approximately 30% less energy per ton-kilometer under equivalent loads, enabling higher average speeds and reduced journey times on electrified routes.[39] Regenerative braking further enhances efficiency by recovering 10-20% of kinetic energy during deceleration, a capability absent in conventional diesel operations, which translates to measurable fuel-equivalent savings in high-frequency passenger services.[40] Maintenance realities for electric systems favor locomotive longevity and reduced downtime, with service intervals typically extending to 180 days versus 92 days for diesel units, owing to fewer mechanical components like engines, fuel systems, and exhaust treatments.[98] Peer-reviewed analyses confirm electric locomotives exhibit 25-35% lower maintenance costs per unit over their lifecycle, attributed to higher reliability and power-to-weight ratios that minimize wear on traction systems.[40] [99] However, these savings at the vehicle level are offset by the need for dedicated infrastructure upkeep; overhead catenary and substation maintenance can account for 20-30% of total electrification operating expenses, with pantograph-catenary interactions causing periodic wear that requires specialized inspections and repairs every 1-2 years.[9] In practice, overall operational costs for electrified networks are 35% lower than diesel equivalents when factoring in energy procurement and vehicle maintenance, as evidenced by UK rail industry assessments, though this assumes grid electricity prices remain competitive with diesel fuel.[100] U.S. Federal Railroad Administration frameworks highlight that while electric systems reduce locomotive-specific maintenance risks, exposure to weather-induced catenary failures—such as ice buildup or storm damage—necessitates contingency planning and can elevate annualized infrastructure costs by 15-25% in adverse climates compared to non-electrified lines.[9] These realities underscore that efficiency gains are most pronounced in dense, high-utilization corridors where infrastructure fixed costs are amortized over greater traffic volumes, but sparse or freight-heavy networks may face prolonged payback periods due to underutilized assets.[99]Lifecycle costs versus diesel alternatives
Electrified railway systems generally exhibit higher initial capital expenditures due to the need for overhead or third-rail infrastructure, estimated at approximately 1.76 million USD per kilometer for overhead lines, alongside electric locomotives that cost about 20% less than equivalent diesel units on global markets.[101][99] However, these upfront costs are offset over the lifecycle by substantially lower operating expenses, including energy and maintenance, particularly on routes with high traffic volumes and utilization rates exceeding certain thresholds, such as frequent services or velocities above 120 km/h.[102] Lifecycle analyses, which discount future cash flows to present value, often demonstrate net savings for electrification when traffic density supports amortization within 10-15 years, though payback periods can extend to 50+ years on sparsely used freight networks like those in the United States.[101][103] Energy costs form a core advantage for electrification, as electric locomotives convert 80-90% of input energy to traction compared to 25-35% thermal efficiency in diesel engines, yielding equivalent costs of 67.5 USD/MWh for electricity versus 264 USD/MWh for diesel in U.S. contexts.[104][101] In high-utilization scenarios, this translates to operational savings of 30-35% relative to diesel, driven by lower per-ton-km fuel equivalents, though sensitivity to fluctuating diesel prices (e.g., above 1 EUR/liter) or subsidized electricity can shift breakeven points.[39][105] Maintenance further favors electrics, with costs 20-30% lower over the lifecycle due to fewer moving parts, absence of engine overhauls, and reduced wear from distributed power delivery, quantified at 3.03 USD/km for electrics versus 5.31 USD/km for diesel in freight applications.[39][104][101]| Cost Component | Diesel (EUR/km or equiv.) | Electric (EUR/km or equiv.) | Key Driver |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy | 24% of total costs | 4% of total costs | Efficiency and price differential[102][101] |
| Maintenance | 5.31 USD/km (freight) | 3.03 USD/km (freight) | Fewer components, no fuel system upkeep[101] |
| Infrastructure | Minimal (existing) | 19% depreciation share | Catenary build and upkeep[102] |
| Total Lifecycle | ~11.44 EUR/km (regional) | ~11.18 EUR/km (regional) | Balanced by utilization[102] |