Electric Locomotive Types
An electric locomotive can be supplied with power from
- Rechargeable energy storage systems, as battery or ultracapacitor-powered mining locomotives.
- A stationary source, such as a third rail or overhead wire.
This is in marked contrast to a diesel-electric locomotive, which combines an onboard diesel engine with an electrical power transmission or store (battery, ultracapacitor) system.
The distinguishing design features of electric locomotives are:
- The type of electrical power used, either alternating current or direct current.
- The method for store (batteries, ultracapacitors) or collecting (transmission) electrical power.
- The means used to mechanically couple the traction motors to the driving wheels (drivers).
Read more about this topic: Electric Rail Transport
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