1. TOPIC: Duty cycle and transport phenomenon analysis of energy storage system for hybrid
locomotive application
Abstract
The consequences of the first oil crisis in 1973, has shown the regular decrease in natural
resources and increase in demand. Also the world energy consumption within the next few
decades, along with the growing demand for low emission resources of energy, has brought
awareness for efficient and clean energy sources. This motivated the whole world to explore
different sources of energy which can reduce the consumption of natural resources. As a
motive, concept of hybrid locomotive consisting of diesel engine, regenerative braking and
battery power has gained importance.
Objective of this study is to perform a feasibility analysis of modes of regenerating energy
developed in the braking and storing the regenerated energy in an electric battery storage
system for use in road locomotive applications. Battery energy density, power density,
charging and discharging rate based on various load cycles, environmental conditions, safety,
lifetime, and cost will be considered in the analysis. Stated factors are expected to
substantially influence the optimal performance and safety of the battery as well as the
potential fuel savings that could be realized using a hybrid design. A computational
algorithm is developed to determine the amount of regenerative braking energy that can be
stored back into the stack of battery during locomotive run. A combined electrochemical and
thermal simulation analysis of LiMn2O4 battery configurations using multiphysics simulation
code has been performed in order to understand effects on the salt concentrations,
temperature and heat generations. This is performed under a variety of loading cycles and
ambient conditions. This analysis assists to address the key issues of operating temperature
of battery with maximum efficiency and dissipation of any excessive heat generated using a
cooling scheme during the operation.
