Rail SFC PCS6000

Dynamic shunt compensation and static frequency conversion for 50/ 60 Hz traction power supply

Hitachi Energy’s Static Frequency Converters (SFCs) introduce a completely new level of flexibility in designing railway electrification systems compared to conventional transformer substations. SFCs support in reducing opex and capex costs, provide maintenance flexibility as well as grid code compliance and support sustainability goals through electrification as well as reduction in energy demand from the grid. Based on power electronics and advanced algorithms, SFCs are part of Hitachi Energy’s Grid-enSure™ portfolio. At the core of the SFC are IGCT based semi-conductors which have a proven track record of excellent robustness and very low losses. They are the optimal choice for highly demanding applications like rail static frequency converters (SFCs).

SFCs de-couple the feeding utility grid from the rail catenary, enabling grid connection requirements. Besides that Hitachi Energy's SFCs are capable of controlling the voltage dynamically and independently on both sides and managing the active power flow through the converter. Through that, parallel feeding of the catenary through multiple SFC substations without neutral zones in between is enabled. This leads to lower peak power per sub-station, better voltage stability, better use of braking energy and lower total number of substations- an optimized rail electrification system! It also translates to improved train power supply availability and train speed, leading to fewer passenger delays and improved customer satisfaction. 

With a proven track record of excellent availability and robustness and an installed base of more than 1.5 GW, Hitachi Energy's Rail SFC PCS6000 is the solution of choice for the electrification of 50/60Hz railway lines.