I understand a genset locomotive is like a asynchronous multicore processor (ie it turns processor cores on and off based on CPU usage). I always thought gensets were a cool idea. Aside from that what are the general advantages and disadvantages to gensets and why aren't they used on road locomotives. They seem like a good way to cut fuel costs. I imagine a disadvantage would be a larger amount of moving parts?
Railroad to Freedom
Not just the number of moving parts but they are moving at twice the speed of real prime movers. The benefits are that they are easier to control emissions and that in some applications only one may be required. For road applications they would be a dead loser, all running all the time and much more complex, Any time you can have fewer parts turning slower you are better off.
The complaints that I hear from those that are operating them - If you think a GE engine is slow to load - try a Genset where beyond the load capability of the 1st prime mover, each subsequent prime mover must get itself started and revved up sufficient to add to the overall loading ability of of the engine. So long as the load needs can be handled by the primary prime mover they are a average piece of equipment. When more load power is needed, they suck.
Never too old to have a happy childhood!
I wouldn't go as far as "suck" with them. Yeah, it can take a few seconds for the other engines to fire up, but once they do, it pulls pretty good. Just had to anticipate the lag.
I'm sure road gensets are not that far behind.
It's been fun. But it isn't much fun anymore. Signing off for now.
The opinions expressed here represent my own and not those of my employer, any other railroad, company, or person.t fun any
What triggers the start of additional motor(s)? Is it automatic when the first motor reaches some fraction of full power or perhaps crew initiated or perhaps either? Likewise, what causes second motor shutdown? What is the time lag between the decision point and the production of a significant amount of additional power?
Road gensets may be on the horizon. NRE has 2GS36C demonstrator that looks like it might be useful on a shortline or regional where it could economically perform in a variety of services.
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