Distribution of the traction return current in AC and DC electric railway systems

The problem of the determination of the real distribution of the return current in electric railway traction systems is considered. One or more conductors (depending on the specific supply system) are purposely set up to carry the traction return current flowing from the rolling stock axles back to the supply (i.e., substation); yet, part of the return current flows through signalling conductors (disturbing current) and through the earth, depending on the value of the electric parameters of the system, on the circuit arrangement, and on the relative position of the supply, the rolling stock, and signalling devices. The amplitude (as a percentage of the total return current) of the disturbing current may be high enough to cause interference to signalling. This work investigates the behavior of the return current in AC and DC electric railway systems, on the basis of a reference system for the variation of the most important electrical parameters. The definition of the transfer function between the return current and the signalling circuit variables is an important element for the compatibility analysis between train detection systems, rolling stock and infrastructure, to promote the cross-acceptance of rolling stock in Europe and abroad.