DC to AC upgrade

The design of the traction converter guarantees maximum availability in the most demanding operation conditions.

Thanks to our team of engineering expertise, we adapt the modular solutions to provide a tailor-made AC traction system suitable and compatible to any type of DC rolling stock, considering the space and technical constraints.

CAF Power & Automation offers the possiblity of improving and modernizing the performance of your vehicles via DC to AC traction chain retrofit.

 

Main characteristics

  • Comprehensive solution: electrical system, new gearbox design, locomotive control system.

  • Adapted to Diesel Electric or Catenary Voltage: AC (25kV-15kV) DC (3kV - 1.5kV-750V).

  • Suitable for passanger and freight rolling stock.

  • Compatible with axle and truck control architectures.

  • Compatible with multiple environmental standars (e.g. Tier X)

Benefits

  • Reduce operating and maintenance cost.

  • Reduce fuel consumption.

  • Customized design allows the possibility of maximize the reuse of components.

  • Highest adhesion levels.

  • Load capacity increase.

  • Investment distribution: Customers incorporate overhauls gradually.

  • Feasible to implement new features: energy storage systems, auxiliary equipment...

 

Success stories

 

Propulsion system DC to AC upgrade 

Application:FreightGL 36 SSC AC

Class: GL-36-SCC AC

Country: South Africa

Increase of starting effort: +32%.

Increase of adhesion level: from 32% to 42%.

Diesel Electric Co-Co Locomotive.

 

Electric Co-Co locomotive:

Diesel Engine Power: 3.000 HP

Speed: 90km/h / 56 mph

Weight:88 Tn - 22 Tn/axle / 251,327lb - 41,887 lb/axle

 

Traction Solution Characteristics:

  • Power: 2.600 kW

  • Air cooling

  • Motor: 400 kW AC (x6)

 

Propulsion system DC to AC upgrade

Application:FreightDASH9 LOCOMOTORA

Class: DASH 9

Country: United States of America

Increase of starting effort: +40%.

Increase of adhesion level: from 34% to 47%.

Diesel Electric Co-Co Locomotive.

 

Electric Co-Co locomotive:

Diesel Engine Power: 4.400 HP

Speed: 113km/h - 70 mph

Weight: 196 Tn - 32 Tn/axle / 432,106 lb - 70,548 lb/axle

 

Traction Solution Characteristics:

  • Power: 3.170 kW

  • Air cooling

  • Motor: 476 kW AC (x6)