Traction motors are widely used in many industries, one of the major ones being railways. Traction refers to the force used to propel a vehicle forward, and the system that facilitates that function is called a traction system. Traction systems can broadly be classified into two groups - non-electric traction systems and electric traction systems. Electric traction motors are used in Indian railways due to their environmentally clean technology and low running costs as compared to diesel traction systems. Since trains are a large-scale application, traction motors are used to effectively and safely propel the train forward.
Here are some of the advantages of traction motors that are used in the Indian railways:
Controls the Speed of the Train
Traction motors use AC and DC motors which have a very high starting torque, which helps in controlling the speed of the train in most conditions. DC motors are used for their speed controlling efficiency. The functioning of trains require high precision and safety, which traction motors are able to provide to the locomotive.
Low Maintenance
Traction motors are completely sealed structures that help in the prevention of dust intrusion. A reduced number of components mean fewer parts requiring maintenance, which in turn reduces the maintenance cost of the system.
Smooth Operations
DC traction motors are used widely in various types of industries including the railways, where a defined amount of speed and power is required. Traction motors help in the smooth operations of a train and also help avoid adverse situations.
Low Noise
Since traction motors are completely sealed structures, they produce lower noise as compared to other diesel motors. The built-in cooling fan in traction motors also helps in keeping the operational sound of the motor low.
High Reliability
Traction motors have been an irreplaceable part of the Indian railways for a very long time. Locomotives need motors that enable seamless operations and provide efficiency in various environments. Hence traction motors are highly reliable in the locomotive industry.
High Torque
Trains are considered to be heavy loads, which means that they require a heavy motor to propel them forward. DC motors are well suited for this purpose due to their high torque generation. This means that traction motors can provide a consistent level of traction over a longer duration with consistent speed and power.
Traction motors are used in the railways due to the many benefits they offer as compared to other diesel motors. Since trains are exposed to extreme weather conditions, the ability of traction motors to cope with such situations without affecting the performance of the locomotive make them a highly preferred choice in the industry.
