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Mitsubishi Electric Receives Order for Prototype Traction Transformers from French National Railways
First Japanese company to be certified by SNCF as propulsion systems supplier
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| * | According to Mitsubishi Electric research, as of December 5, 2017 |
Z2N commuter train
T4 tram train
Traction Transformer for Z2N
The prototype traction transformer weighs 400kg less than the Z2N's existing product thanks to its aluminum winding cables, yet its conversion efficiency is the same or better than the currently installed equipment. The interface design is identical with that of the existing equipment, so the refurbishing will not require any modification of the train car.
Traction Transformer for T4
World's first*application of a natural running air cooling type traction transformer on the car roof, leading to a noise reduction of around 13dB by omitting the electric cooling fan, and achieving electricity loss savings of 50 percent compared to the previous equipment resulting in significant energy efficiency improvements. Also, fully hermetic constant-pressure bellows seals will eliminate the need to periodically replace the insulator oil, which will remain in a sealed system and will not deteriorate. As a result, overall maintenance costs will be reduced.
Background
SNCF, in addition to procuring new high-speed and commuter trains, also actively refurbishes its existing train sets. Retaining a car's body and only renewing components as required helps to lower the railway's environmental impact and to make effective use of existing assets. For the refurbishments this time, SNCF requested Mitsubishi Electric to lower the weight of the Z2N's traction transformer and to reduce energy consumption and noise while extending the life of the T4's traction transformer. Mitsubishi Electric was awarded the orders after being certified as an official supplier following SNCF's favorable evaluation of its technological capabilities and long record of developing and producing high-quality traction transformers.
Future Deployment
The transformers will be installed and then evaluated over a one-year period. If all goes well, SNCF will establish mass-production specifications for both traction transformers. Mitsubishi Electric aims to receive the mass-production orders from the ensuing tenders for both products.
In addition, Mitsubishi Electric will consider supplying other products to SNCF, one of the biggest rail operators in Europe, as the starting point for expanding its business, including refurbishments, in this market.