Converter-Switching Surges: Railroad Vehicle Power Converter Impact Studies

In this article, we address the issue of switching surges generated by onboard power converters affecting components on other trains as well as wayside equipment. We present two cases from both ac and dc-electrified railroad systems in Taiwan to exemplify the seriousness of such phenomena if not properly mitigated. The purpose is to make the rail industry aware of the issue and take it into serious consideration in the deployment of new train power converters in railroad systems. Clear specification of surge transients or permissible impacts need to be included in the procurement documents, and field tests are recommended to verify the compatibility of new power converters with the existing equipment in the entire system.