Introduction
Over the past 16 months, Alta successfully completed a full diesel-to-electric retrofit for Nanjing Iron & Steel, converting a locomotive to fully electric power. This project is just the beginning, with discussions underway to retrofit an additional 10 locomotives, further reducing emissions and operational costs.
About Nanjing Iron & Steel
Nanjing Iron & Steel is one of China’s leading steel manufacturers, heavily reliant on rail transport for moving raw materials and finished goods. The electrification of its freight locomotives aligns with the company’s commitment to reducing its carbon footprint, increasing efficiency, and embracing modern technology. The newly retrofitted locomotive offers greater power, efficiency, and flexibility while operating within their standard rail infrastructure.
Advantages of the Full Electric Retrofit
Nanjing Iron & Steel G1KE Locomotive
Enhanced Efficiency
Powered by lithium iron phosphate batteries, the locomotive can carry up to 2,500 tons of cargo over a range of 120 kilometres. With a maximum speed of 20 km/h, it improves starting traction by 24% and continuous traction by 25%, compared to its diesel predecessor. This allows the locomotive to handle heavier loads more efficiently
Battery System
The locomotive’s super capacitor system provides impressive energy storage, with a capacity of 200.8kWh, while the traction system delivers 90kW of rated output power, with a peak output of 150kW. Alta’s innovative integration of high-performance components, such as a 600 kWh fast charging system, allows the locomotive to be recharged in just 2 hours
Environmental Impact
The shift from diesel to electric drastically reduces greenhouse gas emissions. The retrofitted locomotive is projected to cut fuel consumption by 172 tons annually and reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 816 tons per year. For Nanjing Iron & Steel, this means lower operational costs and a significant step towards achieving sustainability goals
OPERATIONAL FLEXIBILITY
The electric locomotive is designed to work seamlessly within existing rail networks. It features advanced digital technologies, including remote control and unmanned driving capabilities, bringing a new level of automation and operational control to Nanjing Iron & Steel’s logistics
Challenges & Solutions
The transformation from diesel to electric power posed challenges, particularly in adapting the locomotive to handle the same cargo load while improving efficiency. Alta addressed these challenges by implementing a robust traction system and super capacitor setup, ensuring the locomotive could meet the demands of heavy-duty transport while maintaining high energy efficiency. Collaboration with partners like State Grid Jiangsu Electric Power ensured the integration of cutting-edge lithium direct-AC frequency conversion technology
Future Implications
This project is just the start for Nanjing Iron & Steel, as discussions to electrify 10 additional locomotives are underway. Beyond Nanjing, electrifying China’s vast fleet of diesel-powered freight locomotives could lead to substantial environmental and economic benefits, reducing fuel consumption by millions of tons and dramatically cutting carbon emissions.