Studying an Electric Locomotive Driving Cycle Model with an Experimental Electric Energy Storage Device for Shunting Operations

Currently, there has been an active transition to electrified vehicles due to energy cost reduction and increased density of electro-chemical power sources. This has been manifested in the rolling stock electrification in the railway industry, especially in railway stations and depots where the use of diesel engines is limited due to environmental factors. In addition, electric locomotives can operate on non-electrified railway sections and this opens up new prospects for the sustainable development of transport infrastructure. Purpose: To study the technical parameters and energy characteristics of the electric energy storage for efficient use on electric locomotives. Methods: This article considers the key issues of energy of driving cycles and application of electric energy storage on electric locomotives. The experimental data obtained have been compared with the calculated ones. Results: A driving cycle model of a battery locomotive has been developed based on the calculation of the diesel generator (DGS) operating time of a traditional diesel locomotive. The experimental data on the energy storage system (ESS) operation as part of an electric locomotive, as well as the obtained data analysis are presented. The ESS technical parameters necessary for ensuring the electric locomotive efficient operation within the daily cycle of work at the railway station have been identified. Practical significance: The conducted studies have illustrated the energy parameters and operating modes of the contact-battery shunting locomotive during the workday. They allow determining the ESS parameters such as charge and discharge capacity and energy consumption average and maximum values. The study can promote the creation of more efficient mechanisms for the electrical energy accumulation and application, which will reduce the electric locomotive operating costs and increase their energy efficiency. Practical research of electrical energy storage devices can be useful not only for rail transport but also for other areas where efficient energy saving systems are essential