Determination of traction power distribution system impedances and susceptances for AC railroad electrification systems

Electrical characteristics of the traction electrification system, together with the train power demand, headway, and operating scenario, are the key factors in determining the overall system performance. A mathematical procedure for calculation of traction power distribution system line impedances and capacitances is developed using the alternative transient program (ATP). The technique is applied to direct feed and autotransformer feed traction electrification systems and typical results for one-, two-, three-, and four-track railroads are presented. All self- and mutual impedance and capacitance components are included in the calculations.