India’s railway network is the lifeline of the nation, transporting billions of passengers and countless tons of freight annually. As the country continues to grow and develop, the demands placed on this critical infrastructure have intensified. Longer, faster, and more frequent trains are essential to meet the aspirations of a burgeoning economy. However, to achieve this ambitious vision, the railway system must overcome significant challenges by leveraging the power of collaboration.
Growing demands of a rapidly developing nation
While extensive, India's railway network faces significant challenges in meeting the growing demands of a rapidly developing nation. As the country grows, the demands on this infrastructure have increased, requiring longer, faster, and more frequent trains.
The current single-phase 27.5 kV power supply system, once adequate, has become a bottleneck due to increasing train speeds and higher traffic density. Raising the power rating within this system is impractical, as it causes voltage imbalances, significant drops, and higher power losses, resulting in reduced efficiency and infrastructure limitations.
Thus, to meet the rising expectations of passengers and freight operators, a fundamental shift in the power delivery system was essential. This paradigm change was crucial for unlocking the full potential of India’s railway network and addressing its current challenges.
Recognizing the limitations of the existing single-phase 27.5 kV system, Indian Railways has taken the decision of adopting the innovative approach of directly supplying power to two separate 27.5 kV railway lines. By doubling the voltage, the 2x27 kV system can deliver significantly higher power levels to trains, enabling increased speeds and capacities without the drawbacks of increasing current in a single-phase system.
Hitachi Energy's breakthrough Scott-connected and V-connected transformers
Implementing the 2x27 kV system requires specialized traction (rail infrastructure) power transformers capable of efficient power conversion and distribution. Hitachi Energy, at the forefront of developing cutting-edge power solutions for the railway industry, developed Scott-connected and V-connected Specialty Transformers specifically designed to meet the unique requirements of the new 2x27 kV system of Indian Railways.
These Specialty Transformers (Scott-connected & V-connected) meet a higher power requirement (for increased speed) and offer benefits like better voltage regulation and reduced voltage imbalances in the network compared to conventional single-phase traction power transformers with similar power capacity.
Connecting cities while empowering progress
Hitachi Energy's Scott-connected and V-connected transformers, integrated with the 2x27 kV system, promise to transform India's rail network dramatically. These advanced technologies support higher power delivery, leading to faster train speeds, shorter journey times, and enhanced rail capacity.
Furthermore, their ability to operate at higher voltages allows for increased spacing between railway substations (known as Traction Substations or TSS) that supply power to the train lines. This optimization of rail electrical infrastructure reduces maintenance costs and improves the overall system reliability.
The efficiency and power quality of these transformers also translate into lower energy losses and a significant reduction in environmental impact, including up to a 30% decrease in CO2 emissions associated with traditional transformers. This aligns with India's sustainability goals, contributing to a greener rail network.
Beyond environmental benefits, these innovations will also represent a real enabler for local communities' growth and development. Faster and more reliable freight transportation will boost the economy, while improved passenger services will enhance the overall quality of life for millions of Indians. Hitachi Energy's solution is not just about technology; it's about empowering India's progress.
