High-Capacity Energy Storage Devices Designed for Use in Railway Applications

Krystian Woźniak, Beata Kurc, Łukasz Rymaniak (), Natalia Szymlet, Piotr Pielecha and Jakub Sobczak
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Krystian Woźniak: Łukasiewicz Research Network, Electrotechnical Testing Laboratory, Institute of Technology, Warszawska 181, 61055 Poznan, Poland
Beata Kurc: Faculty of Chemical Technology, Institute of Chemistry and Electrochemistry, Poznan University of Technology, Berdychowo 4, 60965 Poznan, Poland
Łukasz Rymaniak: Faculty of Civil Engineering and Transport, Institute of Powertrains and Aviation, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 60965 Poznan, Poland
Natalia Szymlet: Faculty of Civil Engineering and Transport, Institute of Powertrains and Aviation, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 60965 Poznan, Poland
Piotr Pielecha: Faculty of Civil and Transport Engineering, Doctoral School, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 60965 Poznan, Poland
Jakub Sobczak: Faculty of Civil Engineering and Transport, Institute of Powertrains and Aviation, Poznan University of Technology, Piotrowo 3, 60965 Poznan, Poland

Energies, 2024, vol. 17, issue 23, 1-15

Abstract: This paper investigates the application of high-capacity supercapacitors in railway systems, with a particular focus on their role in energy recovery during braking processes. The study highlights the potential for significant energy savings by capturing and storing energy generated through electrodynamic braking. Experimental measurements conducted on a diesel–electric multiple unit revealed that approximately 28.3% to 30.5% of the energy could be recovered from the traction network, regardless of the type of drive used—whether electric or diesel. This research also explores the integration of starch-based carbon as an electrode material in supercapacitors, offering an innovative, sustainable alternative to traditional graphite or graphene electrodes. The carbon material was obtained through a simple carbonization process, with experimental results demonstrating a material capacity of approximately 130 F/g. To quantify the energy recovery, calculations were made regarding the mass and power requirements of the supercapacitors. For the tested vehicle, it was estimated that around 28.7% of the energy could be recovered during the braking process. To store 15 kWh of energy, the total mass of the capacitors required is approximately 245.1 kg. The study emphasizes the importance of increasing voltage levels in railway systems, which can enhance energy transmission and utilization efficiency. Additionally, the paper discusses the necessity of controlled energy discharge, allowing for the flexible management of energy release to meet the varying power demands of trains. By integrating high-voltage supercapacitors and advanced materials like starch-based carbon, this research paves the way for more sustainable and efficient railway systems, contributing to the industry’s goals of reducing emissions and improving operational performance. The findings underscore the crucial role of these capacitors in modernizing railway infrastructure and promoting environmentally responsible transportation solutions.

Keywords: supercapacitor; energy; rail vehicle; recovery braking; starch (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q Q0 Q4 Q40 Q41 Q42 Q43 Q47 Q48 Q49 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2024
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