31/03/2019

Advantages of 25 kV, 50 Hz AC Supply System

The advantages of 25 kV, 50 Hz AC supply system is shown as below.

Light overhead catenary

  • As the system voltage is high, the line current for a given traction demand is very less. This will result in cross section of over head conductor is reduced. 
  • As the size of conductor is reduced, line conductor support and foundation are also light. 
  • The high voltage needs higher insulation of over head equipment this will be compensated by reduction in the size of conductors.

Less number of sub stations

  • As the line current is less in the 25 - kV supply system, this will result in less voltage drop and improves voltage regulation of the line which makes larger spacing between sub stations. 
  • The distance between two sub stations due to 25 kV is approximately 50 – 80 km as against 5 – 15 km for 1500 V DC and 15 – 30 km for 3000 V DC system. 
  • As the number of sub stations is reduced, the capital cost of track electrification is also reduced.

Flexibility for location of sub station

  • The sub station can be located near the high voltage grid which is close to main railway track. 
  • These sub stations are fed from high voltage grid which results in saving in cost of special transmission line for substation.

Low cost of installations

  • The cost of fixed installation for 25 kV AC system as compared to DC system.

Co – efficient of Adhesion

  • The DC locomotive has co – efficient of adhesion about 27% as compared to rectifier locomotive which is closely 45%. 
  • This will result in lighter AC locomotive can takes the same load as heavier straight DC locomotive.

Higher starting efficiency


  • As the AC locomotive has higher string efficiency as compared to straight DC locomotive. 
  • The supply voltage at starting in the DC locomotive is reduced by means of ohmic resistors but it is changed by using tap changer in AC locomotives.
You may also like :

No comments:

Post a Comment