Engine starting for diesel trains

Compared to a typical lead-acid battery starting system, the space requirements for an ultracapacitor engine starting system are significantly smaller. Skeleton Technologies' SkelStart Engine Module is ideally suited for starting diesel train generators, and solve the problem of space by providing all the power necessary while taking up 6 X less space at about 30 X lower weight than lead-acid batteries, making it an easy retrofit solution.

The SkelStart module is charged via a DC-DC converter, which provides control of supply for the engine and charges the SkelStart Engine Module from flat to fully charged less than 10 minutes.

Advantages of an ultracapacitor-based engine starting system:

• Smaller size (6x smaller than a lead-acid equivalent)
• ~30x lighter, not adding any notable amount to the unit’s total weight
• Less maintenance
• Longer lifetime and a 6-year warranty

Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) for diesel trains

Ultracapacitors capture braking energy in trains to power acceleration and decrease carbon emissions

The technology that has been used in motorsports for years is now available for diesel trains. Our Kinetic Energy Recovery System can save you tens of thousands of euros per year.

The effect of regenerative braking on CO2 emissions depends on how the trains are employed, and on the generation mix of the electricity used. Trains can recover up to 20% of electricity depending on whether the train is used as a long-distance train or a full stop commuter train. Energy recuperation can have a global impact considering how many thousands of tons of people and cargo are moved by rail every day.

Main advantages of an ultracapacitor-based KERS system:

• Smaller carbon footprint
• Smaller fuel consumption

Kinetic Energy Recovery System for trains - installation

A train with a KERS consists of control switchgear, cables, protective devices, cooling, mechanical enclosures, monitoring equipment, control module, DC/DC converter, and ultracapacitor modules.

Onboard application for electric trains

Ultracapacitors are used in electric trains to power acceleration and decrease carbon emissions

Electric trains are the future for rail mobility, providing reliability and long lifetime. Ultracapacitors help to handle high power loads and increase reliability.

The block diagram shows how ultracapacitors are implemented into a modern AC electric locomotive.

Stationary application for rail industry

On an electric network, the voltage drops between substations can be taken care of with ultracapacitor energy storage either on-board or at the railway side.

Level crossings can be powered independently from the grid enhancing reliability and saving on costs.