[04.11.2024]
In the context of modern transportation development, the issue of effective and reliable power supply for rolling stock is becoming increasingly relevant. A key element of the power supply system is traction substations, which ensure the conversion and distribution of electrical energy required for the uninterrupted operation of electric transport.
Traditional traction substations used in transport systems often require significant costs for infrastructure and equipment. However, modern technologies and innovative approaches allow for the development of more economical and efficient solutions.
A traction substation is a complex of devices designed to lower electrical voltage and subsequently convert (rectify) current (in the case of DC substations) to transfer it to the contact network to provide power for rolling stock.
There are two types of traction substations: direct current (DC) and alternating current (AC). For power transmission lines, a modular traction substation (MTS) is used. The MTS is designed to receive, convert, and distribute three-phase current electrical energy at 50 Hz and 11 kV into DC electrical energy at 825 V to power traction devices.
There are many ready-made solutions that have been used for decades on various transportation systems (metro, tram, railway), but all of them require the construction of the appropriate infrastructure, and the traction substations themselves are expensive.
A standard electrification system would cost us up to USD 3 million, which was not within our investment plans. Without it, the maximum travel speed cannot exceed 50 km/h due to insufficient power during acceleration of the uBus Carat.
The engineering team at uSky Transport is pleased to announce the development of an innovative approach to organizing current return to storage in our unique vehicles, ensuring high reliability at minimal cost. Our specialists, led by the general designer, aim to optimize the power supply system, making it even more efficient and safe.
This electrification system will cost us less than USD 200,000, and after the New Year, we will be able to see the uBus Carat flying above the ground at speeds of 100 km/h and beyond.
Key aspects of our solution:
Regenerative braking: when the electric motors operate in generator mode, they generate electricity that is used to recharge the traction batteries, helping save energy and reducing the need for additional power from the external grid.
Optimized power balance: our specialists have developed a power balance fully adapted to this scheme, allowing for efficient energy use and avoiding losses associated with returning current to the traction network.
No need for complex modules at traction stations: unlike traditional systems, where power is returned to the traction network, the uSky Transport engineers' solution does not require complex blocks to be installed at traction stations for energy input and conversion. This is a key advantage of the uSky Transport team’s approach, making the system more economical.
Cost-effectiveness and reduced implementation time: by using available materials and standard technologies, our professionals manage to significantly reduce the costs of project implementation. Optimizing the size and number of components simplifies the installation and maintenance of the system, which also reduces operating costs. Additionally, the applied design and implementation methodology shortens the project implementation time for Test Track 4, allowing the system to be put into operation more quickly.
