Modern Efficient Silicon-Rectifier-Type Multiple-Unit Cars for Philadelphia Area Commuter Service

After 3 years of careful evaluation, a modern electric multiple-unit passenger car operating under an 11-kv 25-cycle catenary system has been placed in commuter service on two railroads in the Philadelphia area. Its high-strength stainless steel car body with plastic interior finish, modern lighting, and modulated air conditioning, combines maximum space utilization with maximum passenger comfort and appeal. High-capacity d-c traction motors with double reduction flexible drives are mounted on fabricated 4-wheel trucks and supplied with electrical energy through semiconductor rectifiers. Static components, solidly connected by modern electronic circuitry, control the supply of energy in a smooth flow which insures stepless acceleration of the cars. Performance to date clearly indicates improved service at lower cost.