Developments in Diesel-Electric Traction-Generator Excitation Control Systems

The introductory review covers the major inherent and external regulating excitation systems which have been developed for use on Diesel-electric locomotives. A recently developed amplidyne excitation system using saturable core reactors and selenium rectifiers to obtain definite generator field and armature current limits is described in detail. Used in conjunction with a speed sensitive power plant regulator it provides complete and flexible engine control over its entire operating range of speed and power. Maximum flexibility of motive power is provided by safe and complete remote control which permits operating several locomotive units in multiple.