Meeting Tomorrow's Railroad Power Requirements

This paper examines railroad electrification from the viewpoints of competitive position, load characteristic, service requirements and facility design. Summaries of foreign developments, railroad benefits, and railroad problems associated with electrified operation are presented. Potential electrified railway load magnitudes and characteristics are considered from individual system and national standpoints. Service techniques are recommended which will insure satisfactory operating performance from both utility and railroad standpoints. Possible characteristics for railroad substations, switching, and overhead power delivery facilities are presented. There are no insurmountable technical problems associated with servicing anticipated railway loads, and the electric locomotive's many benefits make it a strong competitor for moving tomorrow's trains.