Mar 22: Civil Engineering Seminar:
Time: 4-5pm, Thursday (March. 22nd)
Location: Dow 642
Public welcome
Topic: Railroads and Environment – Steps in Locomotive and Power Development to Improve the Environmental Footprint of Rail Transportation
Presenter: Mike Iden – General Director, Car and Locomotive Engineering, Union Pacific Railroad
(hosted by Pasi Lautala)
Abstract: Railroads and rail transportation is often considered the “green” transportation alternative, but there is never-ending development process toward improving both the energy efficiency and the environmental footprint of rail transportation. One of the greatest priorities has been locomotives, whether it has been in reducing emissions or in improving operational practices toward better fuel consumption. This presentation will review some of the latest and future advances related to the development of north American diesel locomotives that today dominate the market. The difference between on-board power (diesel-electric or other prime movers) versus centralized power (“electrification”) will also be discussed, including technical and economic issues.