Engineering Features of Three Power Locomotives

Three-power locomotives capable of operating from an external distribution system or on internal power are in use by the New York Central and the Delaware, Lackawanna and Western Railroads. In one case the supply voltage is 600 volts direct current and in the other 3,000 volts direct current. The authors discuss the characteristics of this new type of locomotive and its equipment, as well as the methods of calculating the capacity and characteristics required for the service. The coordination of the diesel engine, generator, battery, and motor equipment has been carefully worked out to insure successful operation of the complete unit.