Distributed Power Wireless Control System for Long Haul Freight Trains Powered by Electric Locomotives in Indian Railways -Challenges and Implementation

Running long haul trains are always preferred to maximize the line capacity & DPWCS (Distributed Power Wireless Control System) makes it possible. Using this, wireless access & control of upto five Electric Locomotives, dispersed throughout the train length is achieved. These locomotives operating in master and slave configuration, transmit command data through UHF (Ultra High Frequency) radio modules. Apart from saving of crew, DPWCS also provides advantages like reduction of coupler forces, faster application of brakes in long-haul freight trains. With DPWCS technology, Indian Railway (IR) has successfully run trains having an overall length of 3.5 kms. There were many technical challenges and interoperability issues in implementation of DPWCS in IR which were tackled in phased manner. The same is discussed in the paper. Presently the DPWCS technology has emerged as a reliable solution for long haul freight trains in Indian Railways.