Fuel Use RR

[robmcg]

Cannot judge the thing... you guys have great V8s and ...


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82jJCs293uo


US ways of doing things are very impressive, as illustrated here, but you are using a lot of fuel to keep warm or cool houses.

But the sight of *twelve* diesel-electrics running hard makes me wonder when your truckers will strike.
The Utah coal trains are similar to container trains from CA.

There is a strange thing going on with the value of money.


http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2Za57_HF5H8&NR=1

[chiph]

They probably have that many engines just to get the needed traction.

Chip H.

[robmcg]

Traction is indeed a factor, but sheer horsepower is around 30,000 or maybe even 50,000 at 12-18mph with , yes, NZ-developed traction-control electronics. (I don't know the hp-rating of modern US diesel electrics)

In the film clips it's noticeable that every engine is working, I would judge in around notch 5 (of 8), where similar film a few years ago would show some engines not working due to poor reliability and others taking the load.

We run 'only' 30 full coal wagons over the Southern Alps, with just two engines for 5,500hp., and our bridges and track support only around 18-ton axle-loads where you guys carry around 30. We sell the coal to Japan for steel-making. We have big forward contracts.

Each of the coal hoppers carries about 90-100 tons of coal. I presume for power production.
Actually, when you mention traction, it is possible to make more power, but traction is the limiting factor. Wheel and track profiles are part of the mix, as is weather, or in the UK, leaves on the track..

[chiph]

Modern digital traction controls can add up to 25% more tractive effort:

http://www.getransportation.com/na/e...%20Sheet-L.pdf

Chip H.