PB315 HE
The Challenge
To meet the ever increasing needs for reductions in energy waste, Powerbox was approached by an Australian fleet operator to design a high efficiency DC/DC converter to supply locomotive headlights. The brief was to remove the need for dropping resistors used to dim incandescent headlights used on locomotives. These dropping resistors waste large amounts of battery energy as heat, which in turn adds to the cabins air-conditioning load, meaning more energy is required for cooling purposes.
The Solution
Powerbox developed the dual output PB315 HE DC/DC converter, which has removed the need to use dropping resistors as a way of dimming incandescent locomotive headlights.
With a high switch-mode efficiency of around 90%, the PB315 HE provides significant energy savings when compared to a resistor.
The PB315 HE is ruggedised against shock and vibration and therefore much less prone to mechanical failure, keeping fleets operating longer between routine maintenance. The PB315 HE also provides a much more stable output voltage and a softer start up- minimising electrical stresses to the filaments and adding considerably to lamp lifetime.
The PB315 HE is designed to supply 2 x PAR 56 lamps i.e 68V, 4.6A high beam and 2 x 32V, 3.3A low beam per lamp. If required, these outputs can be modified to suit other lamps. The high / low beam is controlled from a toggle switch inside the locomotive cabin.
Added Value
The PB315 HE provides substantial cost saving in terms of less heat waste and less air conditioning loading. Further cost savings are achieved through longer lamp life and maintenance / longer lifetime of the PB315 HE compared to resistors.
In addition, the PB315 HE also provides a headlight fail alarm via a set of voltage free contacts. This immediately alerts the driver in the event of a headlight failure, ensuring the safety of the locomotive operation.
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