DEVELOPMENT OF APPROACHES TO STANDARDIZING DIESEL FUEL CONSUMPTION OF HYBRID (COMBINED TRACTION) LOCOMOTIVES
Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of the study is to improve the fuel efficiency of combined-traction diesel locomotives by enhancing the diesel fuel consumption standardization system, taking into account the operating modes of the hybrid power unit, the specific features of battery energy storage utilization, and the actual operating conditions of traction rolling stock. The proposed approach is aimed at ensuring more efficient use of fuel and energy resources and improving the planning of operating costs in locomotive facilities. Methodology. The study is based on the analysis of regulatory, technical, and operational documentation and the design features of combined-traction diesel locomotives. Mathematical modelling of locomotive energy processes, principles of train traction theory, and statistical processing of operational data were applied. Results. Shortcomings of the existing diesel fuel consumption standardization system for combined-traction locomotives have been identified, particularly with regard to accounting for the distribution of energy flows between the diesel and electric components of the traction power system. The influence of battery charging and discharging modes on actual diesel fuel consumption has been established. Relationships between fuel efficiency and the locomotive operating mode, train mass, track profile, and the share of operation in electric mode have been determined. An improved diesel fuel consumption standardization system for hybrid traction rolling stock has been developed. Originality. For the first time, an approach to diesel fuel consumption standardization for combined-traction locomotives has been proposed that, unlike existing approaches, takes into account the redistribution of energy flows between the diesel power unit and the battery energy storage system depending on the locomotive operating mode. The method for determining standard diesel fuel consumption has been improved by accounting for battery charging and discharging modes, train mass, and track profile. The method for assessing the fuel efficiency of traction rolling stock has been further developed through comprehensive consideration of the operating modes of the diesel and electric components of the hybrid power unit. Practical value. The practical significance of the study lies in the possibility of improving the accuracy of diesel fuel consumption standardization, reducing unproductive fuel consumption, improving operating cost planning, and adapting the regulatory framework to the practical application of combined-traction diesel locomotives.