Author(s)

M. Papi, M. Rinchi, A. Rindi & P. Toni

Abstract

One of the main problems concerning high speed running on Italian railways is the current pick up. The contact force between the pantograph and the overhead contact line increases its amplitude and frequency as the speed increases. The frequent detachments generated by this situation cause not only the temporary interruption of power transmission and wire and contact shoe erosion and produce electromagnetic pollution. A frequent method to reduce detachments is based on the progressive increase of uplift force with the increasing speed. This solution can^t be used in high speed running as the excessive contact force necessary to avoid detachments causes a very quick erosion of contact shoes. Furthermore, operating in the above mentioned condition, the amplitude

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