More than half of the world’s trains are powered by ABB traction transformers. One of the latest to benefit from this powerful, lightweight technology is Siemens’ Velaro, currently the fastest operating high-speed train in the world.
By
ABB Communications
ABB has been manufacturing traction transformers for 130 years. More than half of the world’s locomotives and high-speed trains are powered by ABB transformers, and most of the world’s train manufacturers and rail operators rely on them, Siemens among them.
ABB won its first order from Siemens in 2003 for 140 traction transformers for the Desiro double-decker trains that serve the suburban rail system of Zurich, Switzerland. This was followed by large orders for the Mumbai suburban railway in India and the Glasgow urban transport network in Scotland.
An ABB traction transformer (l) for the Velaro D high-speed train (r). Only two traction transformers are required to power each eight-car Velaro train. By mounting the transformers to the underside of the train, more space is released for passengers. This requires a slim, compact and lightweight transformer design, three of the hallmarks of ABB traction transformers.
Building on this successful collaboration, Siemens selected ABB in 2009 to supply the traction transformers for its showcase Velaro high-speed train. The order is for 15 eight-unit trainsets for the German national rail company, Deutsche Bahn.
The first trains will enter service in 2011 and will operate on international routes across four countries (France, Germany, Belgium and Switzerland) using four different power supplies and complying with the safety and signaling regulations of each country.
"ABB met the challenging requirements for size and weight, etc, of these special transformers in a very convincing manner. So we chose ABB as a reliable partner for the Velaro D project.” - Ralf Mayer, member of the Velaro platform team, Siemens Mobility
By incorporating a number of design innovations like multi-purpose components such as winding and lightweight materials, ABB has reduced the total weight of the transformers, a factor of crucial importance in very high-speed trains where every kg counts. For instance, the ABB winding enables the train to use both DC and AC systems without adding extra weight.
And to reduce both footprint and operating costs ABB is utilizing its innovative integrated transformer and cooling system concept, which enables the train to operate for longer periods with low maintenance.
The combined effects of these features make a significant contribution to the Velaro achieving an operating speed of up to 320 km/h, while carrying 20 percent more passengers than its predecessor and consuming only 0.33 liters of gasoline equivalent per person per 100 km.
Learn more about ABB's collaboration with Siemens on the Velaro D