Experiments to be performed on the FAST track at the Transportation Test Center required a method of measuring train resistance and related fuel consumption in moving the train. Previous experiments had shown that the Roll Dynamics Unit (RDU) in the Rail Dynamics Laboratory might be used as a dynamometer to measure the performance of a locomotive. A GP40-2 locomotive was already being used on the RDU as a test bed for fuel flowmeter. The locomotive was instrumented so that input power to the traction motor armatures was calibrated to measure train resistance by developing accurate performance curves that related traction-motor armature input to tractive power. Field trials with the locomotive hauling test, consisting of cars with ordinary three-piece trucks and two types of radial trucks, were performed to test the instrumentation package. Results showed the system to be reliable, durable, and accurate. In addition, the use of radial trucks, or truck lubrication, was shown to be beneficial in reducing train resistance.


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    Title :

    Characterization of Locomotive Tractive Effort from the Electrical Power to the Traction Motors


    Contributors:
    N. Wilson (author) / K. Rownd (author) / M. Dembosky (author) / R. Washburn (author)

    Publication date :

    1986


    Size :

    126 pages


    Type of media :

    Report


    Type of material :

    No indication


    Language :

    English




    Locomotive tractive effort

    Houston, H.A. | Engineering Index Backfile | 1913


    Locomotive tractive effort table

    Engineering Index Backfile | 1909



    Variations in locomotive tractive effort with speed

    Williamson, A.S. | Engineering Index Backfile | 1912


    Tractive effort of steam locomotives (locomotive ratios -- II)

    Lipetz, A.I. | Engineering Index Backfile | 1935