Abstract
Surge voltage is created on AC railcar bodies when a train raises its pantograph or when its main circuit breaker is switched. This surge voltage expands and vibrates at the end car as a result of the reflection effect in distributed-parameter circuit theory. Extreme surge voltage causes damage to and malfunction of on-board equipment, especially electronic devices such as train signaling and brake control systems. This paper outlines the mechanism behind the phenomenon of surge generation on AC railcar bodies, outlines the results of experiments for improving AC railcar ground systems, and discusses ideal ground systems for the prevention of extreme surge voltage.
