Sometimes Electric traction is perceived as more energy efficient, by wrongly computing the efficiency from the Overhead wire, in stead of from the Primary Source of Energy, viz., Coal / Oil (used in producing electricity in power houses)
The energy efficiency of Traction should however be calculated right from the Primary source of Power, taking into account, losses occurring at every stage.
(For example, in production of Electricity in Power houses and Transmission and Distribution)
ENERGY EFFICIENCY (ii)
ELECTRIC LOCO
DIESEL LOCO
Source : The Economics of Railway Traction by
Dr. J. Majumdar (Mcgraw Hill & Co.)
Overall Efficiency
1. Fuel
2. Theoretical efficiency of Diesel Cycle (for a volumetric compression ratio of 1:16)
3. Boiler efficiency (in electric operation: efficiency of steam power plant)
4. Indicated efficiency
5. Mechanical efficiency of diesel engine (auxiliaries included)
6. Efficiency of power transmission to axles
7. Theoretical efficiency of cycle in electric operation
8. Indicated efficiency and mechanical and electrical efficiency of the entire turbo-a.c. converter (auxiliaries included)
9. Efficiency of power transmission from power plant to substation
10. Efficiency of converter and of power transmission from substation input to current collector, return current losses included
11.Electro-mechanical efficiency of locomotive at the driving wheels, allowing for feed-water heating to 100 deg. C by exhaust stem.
Energy Efficiency (iii)
The table proves that Electric traction as energy efficient is a myth
AUTHORITY : CEA Figures
Availability of Oil (Reserves)
Ever since Col. Blake discovered oil in 1857, this is the usual pessimistic refrain that we hear.
Arthur Anderson/Cambridge Energy Research Associates reports:
In 1970, the reserves were estimated to last 33.78 years
In 1980, the estimate was 33 years despite increase in consumption by 30%
In 1999, oil reserves were estimate to last 43 years despite increase in consumption by 43%
