Traction power consumption as a component of maximum speed choice on High Speed Lines

Railway Research Institute, ul. Chłopickiego 50, 04-275, Warsaw, Poland

^* Corresponding author: azurkowski@ikolej.pl

Abstract

The paper includes briefly the most important methodological considerations for selecting the maximum speed for the newly designed HSL. They provide a context for discussion on energy aspects regarding traction energy costs. The research problem in question includes both the assessment of the absolute values associated with the consumption of traction energy and their reference to other costs and revenues associated with the operation of the High Speed Rail (HSR). The proposed approach is based on an analysis of the experience described in the international literature of the subject and simulation calculations for Polish conditions. Based on the approximate results and dependences in this field obtained by the railways with operational experience in relation to the typical HSR train sets, the records of dependencies which are most likely to be confirmed in Polish conditions are presented. Currently, 3 kV DC is used on the railway network in Poland. This is therefore technically different from the one designed on HSL (25 kV AC), which the calculations are related to. Choosing the maximum speed for HSL must take into account the consumption of electricity because of its significant cost. However, the shortening of travel time by increasing the speed makes the HSR offer more attractive and thus allows for increased revenues. The final decision should therefore be a compromise based on detailed calculations, forecasts and simulations.