Static Converters – The Future of Traction Power Supply

Static converters offer many advantages in traction power supply compared with conventional technology for the 50 Hz supply of electricity for railways. These static converters prevent harmful effects on the three-phase (3AC) supply network and make it possible for electro-dynamic regenerative brakes to be used without interruption. The article shows how railway projects in Europe and around the world are candidates for the use of static converters, as well as conversions of railways from direct current (DC) to alternate current (AC) operation. Using conventional technology, such a conversion could do more harm than good, but with the use of static converters it is definitely possible to make improvements.