Trunk line electrification

Abstract

This paper outlines the steam railroad conditions in the West and gives an idea of some of the results which would occur with electric operation of the steam railroads. One important point brought out is the characteristic of the electric locomotive to operate overload for short periods and thus be able to haul heavier freight trains over the undulating grades on most steam railroads than is possible with a steam locomotive. The data given showing the distribution of steam railroad engine service show that it is possible to keep a steam locomotive in service only a small portion of its time, which would not be the case with electric locomotives, which have no fire boxes or boilers to be cleaned out. In the example taken, it is shown that only about half as many locomotives would be required to handle a given traffic by electric operation as by steam operation. A method of analyzing the comparative operating expenses and fixed charges of trunk line railroads by steam and electric operation is given in a very complete manner. While the financial showing made for electric operation is good, attention is called to the fact that the most important objection to the electrification of steam railroads is the heavy first cost. Also it is shown that the purchase of power from central station power companies and cöperation with them in the matter of building high-tension transmission lines, would considerably reduce the first cost of electrification.