GTO and IGBT traction three phase inverter drives

Power electronic traction drives have become increasingly more complex due to the developments of high power and high speed semiconductors (GTO, IGBT), microprocessor control and three phase inverter drives. This has given the ability to operate 3 phase induction motor drives with electric traction multiple units and locomotives. The induction motor three phase drive provides an increase in the overall performance of electric traction equipment. With the ability to increase the level of the installed power, the train operator has been able to improve train operating times, the speed of the traction unit and the demand on the power supply system. With the introduction of inverter drives it has become necessary to complete a systems approach to ensure the safe operation of existing railway electrification infrastructure, and the safety critical areas of train signalling, and telecommunications.