BHEL Supplies Key Traction Converters for Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains

INDUSTRIAL-GOODSSERVICES
Whalesbook Logo
AuthorVihaan Mehta|Published at:
BHEL Supplies Key Traction Converters for Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains
Overview

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has begun supplying underslung traction converters for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project, signaling its entry into the semi-high-speed propulsion market. Executed in partnership with Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL), this move supports the production of 80 Vande Bharat sleeper rakes. The advanced converters enhance train capacity and passenger amenities for long-distance journeys.

Component Delivery Underway

Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has commenced the supply of underslung traction converters, a critical component for the Vande Bharat Sleeper Train project. This initiative marks a significant step for the public sector undertaking as it ventures into the semi-high-speed propulsion segment.

Strategic Propulsion Entry

The traction converters are being dispatched to Kolkata for the final assembly of the Vande Bharat Sleeper Trains. BHEL confirmed that other essential propulsion equipment, including traction motors and transformers for these trains, have already been developed and manufactured at its facilities in Bhopal and Jhansi. This integrated approach showcases BHEL's manufacturing capabilities across the propulsion system.

Enhanced Train Capabilities

These state-of-the-art, IGBT-based traction converters feature an underslung design. This configuration places the propulsion equipment beneath the train car, thereby optimizing onboard space for enhanced passenger amenities and increasing the overall payload capacity. The system is engineered for operational speeds of up to 160 kmph, with a design speed of 176 kmph.

Project Consortium

BHEL is executing this project in collaboration with Titagarh Rail Systems Ltd (TRSL). The partnership between BHEL and TRSL is slated to develop 80 of the 200 Vande Bharat Sleeper rakes, each comprising 16 coaches. The remaining 120 rakes will be supplied by an Indo-Russian joint venture.

Future of Long-Distance Travel

The Vande Bharat Sleeper trains are designed for long and medium-distance journeys. Reports indicate that the inaugural service is planned to connect Guwahati in Assam with Howrah in West Bengal. The advanced propulsion systems, featuring high-efficiency power conversion and robust thermal management, are intended to ensure reliability during overnight travel.

Disclaimer:This content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute investment, financial, or trading advice, nor a recommendation to buy or sell any securities. Readers should consult a SEBI-registered advisor before making investment decisions, as markets involve risk and past performance does not guarantee future results. The publisher and authors accept no liability for any losses. Some content may be AI-generated and may contain errors; accuracy and completeness are not guaranteed. Views expressed do not reflect the publication’s editorial stance.