Re: Engine Voltage

[pmilne@the.net.nz (Peter)]

In article <XZZz5.58632$c5.161771@newsfeeds.bigpond.com>, dsma@pigpond.com 
pontificates...
>
>I went for a spin in an 81 class (Goulburn-Wollongong and return) the other
>day and being curious was wondering if anyone can fill me in on the
>electrics. I noted the max amps was up to 1200 with a continuous figure
>somewhere near 800. I understand these locos produce about 2400kw which at
>1200 amps would equate to 2000 volts DC. A voltage this high would seem to
>carry a significant risk of arcing and I was wondering if this really is a
>problem or have I got the numbers wrong. 

There seems nothing out of the ordinary with that sort of voltage especially 
when you consider that NSW (and Wellington, New Zealand and many other places) 
use 1600 volts (or so) DC overhead supply for electric locos and multiple 
units.

Peter