How much HP does a freight train have?

How much HP does a freight train have?

In today’s new, six-axle freight locomotives this typically ranges from 4,300 to 4,400 horsepower. This amount is what actually makes it to the traction motors underneath the locomotive, but the engine produces more power than that.

What do freight train engines run on?

Diesel fuel is stored in a fuel tank and delivered to the engine by an electric fuel pump. Diesel fuel has become the preferred fuel for railroad locomotive use due to its lower volatility, lower cost, and common availability.

How many HP is a train engine?

“Most electric locomotives weigh between 100 and 200 short tons (90 and 180 metric tons) and provide about 6000 to 7000 horsepower (4500 to 5200 kilowatts).”

Do freight trains use electric motors?

Although commonly called “diesels,” the locomotives actually are electrically driven. The diesel engine drives an alternator, which produces electricity to run electric motors mounted on the locomotive’s axles.

How much fuel does a locomotive use in an hour?

Using an average of 3.5 gallons of fuel burned per hour idling per locomotive – some easy math shows an annual consumption of over 20 million gallons of excess idle, which is over 4% of the total annual fuel consumption for that particular Class I railroad – do we have your attention yet?

How much fuel does a freight train use?

Similarly, a typical train might haul 3,000 tons of freight 500 miles and consume approximately 3,049 gallons of diesel fuel.