Comparative Operating Results of Steam, Diesel-Electric, and Electric Motive Power on the Great Northern Railway Electrification

Abstract

The 75-mile single-phase 11-kv electrification of the Cascade Mountain division of the Great Northern is described briefly and the comparative performance of steam and electric locomotives is given, indicating the ability of the electric locomotive to handle 6 times the number of ton miles per hour formerly handled by steam locomotives. Mixed operation, using steam, Diesel-electric, and electric locomotives in the same trains, during the war, is described, and comparative costs of operation and maintenance for each type of motive power are given. The superior advantages of the motor-generator type of electric locomotive are set forth. Further extensions of this electrification are shown to depend on cheaper electric power costs, without restrictive demand rates. The future of electrification, in general, is shown to be closely associated with standardization of system by manufacturers, and the possible coordination of motor-generator type locomotive apparatus and equipment with that of other generator type motive power.