diesel-electric locomotive
Noun: A diesel-electric locomotive is a type of railway locomotive. Its power comes from a diesel engine that drives an electrical generator. This generator produces electric current, which then powers electric traction motors connected to the locomotive's wheels. This design combines the efficiency of diesel fuel with the smooth, powerful control of electric motors.
This term is used specifically in the context of rail transport and engineering to describe a common type of modern locomotive. - The freight train was pulled by a powerful diesel-electric locomotive. - The railway company is upgrading its fleet with newer diesel-electric locomotives. - The efficiency of a diesel-electric locomotive comes from its ability to convert diesel fuel into electrical power for the wheels.
- Technical Context: In engineering discussions, the term is used to distinguish this powertrain design from purely diesel-mechanical or purely electric locomotives that get power from overhead lines.
- The key advantage of the diesel-electric locomotive is its ability to provide high starting torque.
- Historical/Comparative Context: Used when discussing the evolution of railway technology.
- The diesel-electric locomotive largely replaced the steam locomotive in the mid-20th century.
- Diesel locomotive: A more general term that can sometimes refer to diesel-electric types, but may also include other transmission types (e.g., diesel-hydraulic). In common usage, it is often synonymous with "diesel-electric locomotive."
- Diesel-electric: The adjective form describing the hybrid power system itself.
- The diesel-electric powertrain is highly reliable.
- Diesel locomotive (in common, non-technical usage)
- Diesel-electric engine (less common)
- Diesel-electric multiple unit (DEMU): A passenger train where the diesel-electric power system is built into multiple carriages, not a separate locomotive.
- Diesel-electric transmission: The specific system of power transfer (diesel engine → generator → motors) used in such locomotives.
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a locomotive driven by the electric current generated by a diesel engine
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