By OUR STAFF REPORTER
Haridwar, 4 Jun: In a major technological leap towards modernisation of Indian Railways’ existing fleet of conventional DC Traction Motor driven Electric Locomotives, Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has successfully developed a Regenerative System for retro-fitment in these locos to make them energy efficient. Following the successful development, Indian Railways has placed an order on BHEL for 25. Broad Gauge 5000 HP AC Electric Locomotives of type WAG-7 with regenerative feature.
BHEL is the first to develop such a system for these locomotives. The system has the unique feature of utilising the kinetic energy of the train while in braking mode, which is re-converted into electrical energy and is fed back to the electric grid through OHE lines. Earlier, this energy was getting wasted in Dynamic Braking Resisters (DBRs) of locomotives in the form of heat.
A pioneer in the transportation sector, BHEL has been working very closely with Indian Railways for the last six decades to meet their requirement of electric propulsion equipment for rolling stock and mainline electric locomotives. BHEL has already supplied 20 6000 HP WAG-9H Electric Locomotives last year and 10 more locomotives will be supplied this year. The company has augmented its capability to manufacture and supply around 100 locomotives per annum.
BHEL is fully geared up to cater to the growing needs of Indian Railways by offering solutions with latest technological advancements. BHEL has created a dedicated center for research and development in transportation technology and manufacturing facilities at its Bhopal, Jhansi and Bengaluru plants.
BHEL has embarked upon a transformation journey for ‘Creating a BHEL of tomorrow’ and is pursuing various diversifications initiatives for increasing non-coal business. It is extending its offering in the transportation segment and has equipped itself to foray into manufacturing of metro coaches, rolling stock for high speed railway, Railway electrification and environmental friendly and energy efficient rolling stock for Indian Railway.
