What causes the high pitched steady sound that a modern oncoming train makes? Trains powered by older locomotives like SD40-2s don't make that sound.. instead one hears the expected rhythmic beat of the engines.
Turbo Charger?
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Ulrich What causes the high pitched steady sound that a modern oncoming train makes? Trains powered by older locomotives like SD40-2s don't make that sound.. instead one hears the expected rhythmic beat of the engines.
It is the one that you DO NOT HEAR that gets you.....
If you mean that hum, just at the threshold of hearing…that’s the alternator and traction motors….the newer locomotive’s diesel engines are so much quieter than the old ones you can hear stuff now that was covered up before.
Part of the sound may also be turbos/super chargers(blowers) running at speed.
In the video showing up on Facebook, the one where the reporter was commenting on how quite the train was, what you hear is the blowers or turbos as it approaches.
Today’s new locomotives are super quite compared to the old SD 40s and GP 38s.
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The traction motors can be pretty loud - I've gotten used to listening to them while running - it might be an early indication of an axle running away if the anti-slip doesn't catch it. Good way to do in a traction motor - letting the axle run up to over 75 with virtually no load...
I can usually hear the traction motors on trains going by Utica Union Station when I'm there.
Larry Resident Microferroequinologist (at least at my house) Everyone goes home; Safety begins with you My Opinion. Standard Disclaimers Apply. No Expiration Date Come ride the rails with me! There's one thing about humility - the moment you think you've got it, you've lost it...
edblysardIf you mean that hum, just at the threshold of hearing…that’s the alternator and traction motors….the newer locomotive’s diesel engines are so much quieter than the old ones you can hear stuff now that was covered up before.
Thank you for clearing that up.
Good question and answer. It is something I have wondered about for years.
Bruce
So shovel the coal, let this rattler roll.
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