2011-05-26 - ABB has designed and built the world's first traction transformer that can be fully integrated into the roof design of Bombardier's latest generation double-deck train for commuter, regional and intercity service.
By
ABB Communications
Rapid urbanization, with its traffic jams, polluted air and swelling populations, means rail operators and infrastructure managers must accommodate more passengers in rail networks that are already congested. One solution is to increase passenger capacity on existing networks.
This can be done by using double-deck multiple train units with the best seat per train ratio available, and by improving acceleration performance to reduce travel time between stations, increasing service coverage.
More capacity on existing rail lines makes rail networks more productive and efficient. Bombardier received a contract to supply up to 860 double-deck Regio 2N** EMUs (electrical multiple units) for regional service in France. So far, six regions have ordered a total of 129 Regio 2N trains, which are brand-named BOMBARDIER OMNEO* by the manufacturer. The trains are to be delivered between June 2013 and mid-2016.
For the first time, an ABB traction transformer connected to Bombardier components is enabling the entire traction chain to be roof mounted in a double-deck train, saving space and weight. (Images courtesy Bombardier Inc.)
ABB roof-mounted traction transformers will be installed on these trains (one unit per train). The latest Bombardier double-decker features an ultra-wide body and clever seating plans that provide more passenger space (from 5 to 5.8 seats per meter) and up to 35 percent more passenger capacity than similar trains currently on the market.
Bombardier and ABB have a long history of cooperation with respect to traction components for regional and commuter trains, as well as high speed trains and locomotives. (A traction transformer adapts the electrical voltage coming from overhead power lines to the lower voltage levels needed to feed the traction chain, ie, the equipment that drives the train, as well as run lighting, heating, ventilation and other essential electrical systems like LCD displays and information systems aboard the train).
Rail operators increase passenger capacity on existing rail networks by using double-deck trains with the best seat per train ratio available
ABB traction solution
The wear and tear on regional and commuter trains is different from long-distance, high-speed trains. Higher, heavier double-deck EMUs accelerate fast and stop frequently along local and middle-distance routes that connect cities and towns, which puts severe strains on their traction transformers.
To guarantee uninterrupted rail service and the highest level of instant power availability and reliability, ABB designed the OMNEO traction transformer to provide 25 percent more power than the unit built for Bombardier’s single-deck SPACIUM* EMU (Francilien trains) operating around Paris.
To save space, the roof-installed traction chain features a combined cooling system between the converter and transformer. This reduces the number of special fan motors, as well as costs and weight. In addition, the roof walkways have been directly integrated onto the transformer to increase space and accessibility for maintenance and control.
Another big challenge was fitting the traction components into the rounded contour of the OMNEO's roof. Bombardier and ABB worked on the design together. Shaped side skirts fixed to the converter, cooling system and transformer ensure each component fits exactly into the rounded roof, and is invisible when installed. To compensate for the double-decker's high center of gravity, the transformer was also designed so that its total weight is equally distributed.
Superior performance and reliability in this new shape provides Bombardier with a complete plug-and-play traction transformer solution.
* Trademark(s) of Bombardier Inc. or its subsidiaries.
** Trademark of ARF (Association des Régions de France)
| The OMNEO electric multiple unit train is a modular design built to meet all types of short- and middle-distance rail services, using six-, seven-, eight- and ten-car trains. |