Descriptive Parts of a Diesel Locomotive

The Diesel Engine

• The diesel engine is a compression-ignition engine. It comes in two configurations: two-stroke and four-stroke. The two-stroke engine has no valves and is easier to maintain, while the four-stroke engine is closer to a petrol engine and is more fuel efficient. Most modern diesel locomotives have a four-stroke engine. Diesel engine output is measured in horsepower.

Radiator

• The radiator is used to cool the diesel engine. It pumps a liquid coolant that cools the engine and transfers the heat to the liquid, which is then released to the atmosphere with the help of the radiator fan. Locomotive radiators are generally made of aluminum and are placed at the back of most modern diesel locomotives.

Alternator

• The diesel engine does not move the locomotive, it only produces energy. The engine needs some sort of transmission system to convert this energy into torque. Most modern diesel locomotives are actually diesel-electric locomotives; the energy produced by the diesel engine is converted into alternate current (AC), which is then passed to the traction motors attached to the wheels of the locomotive. Many high-capacity diesel locomotives come with auxiliary alternators.

Motor Blower

• Most modern diesel locomotives come with a mounted blower.The blower is connected to the alternator and the motors via ducting. It helps cool the alternator and all the motors connected to the locomotive.

Fuel Tank and Air Reservoirs

• The fuel tank is generally located under the diesel locomotive. Its capacity differs from model to model and varies from between 1,000 to 5,500 gallons. The air reservoir/compressor is mounted next to the fuel tank in most diesel locomotives. They are mainly required for the locomotive breaking system. Air compressors that work on electricity can be positioned anywhere in the locomotive.

Turbocharger

• The turbocharger is mounted on most modern diesel locomotives. It uses exhaust gases to push more air into each cylinder of a diesel engine, thereby producing more energy.

Traction Motors

• Traction motors are three-phase AC motors, responsible for the actual movement of the diesel locomotive. Most diesel locomotives have between four and six traction motors. They are generally mounted on the locomotive axle.