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Electric Traction Unit 1 Notes

Electric traction utilizes electric power to drive vehicles, primarily in railway systems, offering cleaner and more efficient operation compared to non-electric systems like steam or diesel engines. It is categorized into AC, DC, and composite systems, with advantages such as high torque and lower maintenance, but also faces challenges like high initial costs and dependency on power supply. Diesel-electric traction combines diesel engines with generators for non-electrified routes, presenting a balance of operational ease and higher pollution levels.

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444 views3 pages

Electric Traction Unit 1 Notes

Electric traction utilizes electric power to drive vehicles, primarily in railway systems, offering cleaner and more efficient operation compared to non-electric systems like steam or diesel engines. It is categorized into AC, DC, and composite systems, with advantages such as high torque and lower maintenance, but also faces challenges like high initial costs and dependency on power supply. Diesel-electric traction combines diesel engines with generators for non-electrified routes, presenting a balance of operational ease and higher pollution levels.

Uploaded by

priyanshuraj142007
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We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Electric Traction - Unit 1: Basics of

Traction System
1. Introduction to Electric Traction

Electric traction means using electric power for traction system, i.e., for moving vehicles
from one place to another.
In railway transportation, electric traction refers to the use of electric motors to drive
trains.

Electric traction is widely used in railways, trams, trolley buses, and electric vehicles due to
its efficiency and cleaner operation.

2. Types of Traction Systems

There are mainly two types of traction systems:


1. Non-Electric Traction System
2. Electric Traction System

2.1 Non-Electric Traction System

This system uses non-electric sources such as steam or diesel engines to drive the vehicle.
Examples: Steam engine, Diesel engine.

Advantages:
- Simple in design
- Can run on non-electrified tracks

Disadvantages:
- Less efficient
- High pollution and maintenance cost

2.2 Electric Traction System

In this system, electric motors are used for traction.


Electric traction is further classified into:
1. AC Electric Traction
2. DC Electric Traction
3. Composite Traction (AC + DC)

Examples: Electric trains, metro rail

Advantages:
- High starting torque and acceleration
- Clean and efficient operation
- Less maintenance due to fewer moving parts

Disadvantages:
- High initial infrastructure cost
- Cannot run during power failure (unless battery backup is present)

3. Diesel-Electric Traction

In this system, a diesel engine is used to drive a generator, which in turn powers traction
motors.

Advantages:
- Suitable for non-electrified routes
- No need for overhead electric lines
- Easy to operate and maintain

Disadvantages:
- High fuel cost
- More pollution compared to electric traction

4. Systems of Electric Traction

Electric traction systems can be of different types based on power supply and usage:

1. DC System (600V, 750V, 1500V, 3000V)


2. Single-phase AC System (15kV, 25kV)
3. Three-phase AC System
4. Composite System (AC for transmission and DC for traction)

Among these, the 25kV AC system is most widely used in Indian Railways.
5. Choice of Electric Traction System

Selection depends on several factors:


- Type of service (urban/suburban/mainline)
- Cost of installation and maintenance
- Availability of electric supply
- Traffic density and route length

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